Unsung Heroes Art Project 2025

A tribute to those who make the public sector better – every day.

Since day one, the Creative Bureaucracy Festival has championed the people behind the scenes – those who push boundaries, rethink routines, and shape better bureaucracies with courage and care. With the Unsung Heroes Art Project, we shine a spotlight on these everyday changemakers.

What is the Unsung Heroes Project?

In 2025, we team up with visual artist Esra Rotthoff to capture the spirit of creative bureaucrats and their allies through a series of striking photographic portraits. The project honours individuals who bring innovation, empathy, and dedication to public institutions – often without ever seeking the spotlight.

During the festival on 5 June 2025, selected participants are invited to a joyful 30-minute photoshoot with Esra, offering a fresh, artistic take on what it means to be a “bureaucrat as everyday hero.”

Recognition on Stage

The project culminates in a celebratory moment at the Festival Closing, where the portraits are unveiled on the main stage screen. All featured heroes are invited on stage for a group photo – a moment of well-deserved recognition in front of our global festival community.

What Happens Next?

After the festival, the Unsung Heroes portraits and stories will be published here on our website – alongside reflections from the artist and the participants themselves. The project will also live on as part of a broader campaign across our social media channels and in selected publications.

👉 Check back soon to discover the portraits and meet the unsung heroes shaping the future of government from the inside out.