Nettle for Us (NFU)

At a time when Europe is rethinking its relationship with materials, territories, and shared heritage, Nettle for Us (NFU) explores the potential of nettle as a heritage resource and biomaterial for contemporary design.

The project aims to document, connect, and circulate knowledge about nettle across Europe, while supporting new artistic and design practices based on the material. Through a European study, an open-access White Paper, and an open call for artists and designers, NFU brings together knowledge from research, design, production, and local ecosystems. The resulting works will be presented in a final exhibition in Copenhagen during 3 Days of Design 2027.

By connecting actors across disciplines and territories, NFU seeks to strengthen a European network around nettle and explore its potential as a material for contemporary creation.

The project is funded by the Creative Europe Programme (2021–2027) and runs from February 2026 to July 2027. It is led by Avedis Development (France) and brings together a cross-sector consortium comprising the Royal Danish Academy (Denmark), Luke Institute (Finland), Kopri (France), and Ortika (Italy).