A City Made By People Journal Issue 3

3

A City Made By People | Issue 3 ISSN 2468-4732 Published in Amsterdam, June 2018 Founder & Publisher Robin Cox Design Claudia de Haas Illustrations Emmy-Koos Meijer Editors Robyn Collinge Sarah Picolet Emma Goodman Stephanie Adams Cover photography / Art Direction

Let’s make our cities more livable together

Kevin Rijnders

We love to share our collective intention with others and are always open to collaborating on

Cover model

great projects with different brands and cities.

Serano Pinas / Urban Heroes

Let’s connect!

City Captains

Become a Founding Friend

Kayla Holderbein (Stockholm)

Interested in becoming part of our

Marta Aguilar (Madrid)

print journal as a Founding Friend?

Adriana Spulber (Bucharest)

Please get in touch!

Charlotte Sabouret (Copenhagen) Stephanie Adams (London)

Become a stockist

Craig A. Taylor (Manchester)

Our stories around livability in cities

Bemi Hammond (Paris)

need to travel the globe. We’re therefore

Melissa Gagné (Vancouver)

seeking great places to be sold in.

Lindsey Potter (Seattle)

Interested in distributing the A City Made

Touly Phiachantharath (Chicago)

By People journal? Please drop us a line!

Rita Farmer & Waqar Ahmad (Minneapolis) Lesley Cheung (Hong Kong)

Contact

Taiga Kato (Tokyo)

knockknock@acitymadebypeople.com

Netta Justice (Melbourne) All rights reserved. Please get in touch Printer

with us first if you want to use any part of

Printing House KOPA, Kaunas, Lithuania

the journal for commercial purposes.

Kevin Rijnders

1 2 3 4

See Meet Create Progress

Nadine van der Wielen

WELCOME

We support & celebrate those who make our cities more livable A new format, a fun cover, an overall fresher look, slightly more affordable, lighter, and easier to take with you when strolling through town.

Let’s thrive through inclusivity & connection

Our renewed position has inspired the editorial

With Issue 1 and 2, we noticed that we created

briefing of Issue 3. Four focused chapters with

something really nice. Due to the pricing however,

a total of 15 cities, sharing insights and local

it wasn’t as accessible to everyone as we had

knowledge around livability.

hoped. A City Made By People lives and thrives on inclusivity and we felt responsible for changing

The

a few things, so our newest issue can be read by

Chicago, Copenhagen, Hong Kong, London,

cities

include

Amsterdam,

Bucharest,

more citizens across different parts of the world.

Madrid, Manchester, Melbourne, Minneapolis, Paris, Seattle, Stockholm, Tokyo and Vancouver.

We’re still the same bunch of people, with an unchanged collective intention and drive, showing

A huge thanks to all the correspondents, photo­

how our cities develop and progress by the people

graphers, and the A City Made By People crew for

that are shaping them every single day. And since

bringing this issue to life. It really has become a

last year, this international network has doubled

very special publication. You know who you are!

in size, with even more cities and correspondents, and an overwhelming sense of enthusiasm.

We hope this journal inspires you to create a positive impact in your own city.

The focus on livability in cities Besides producing this annual print journal,

Cheers

running an online magazine, and hosting local

Robin Cox

speaker events, we added Made By People Lab to

City Enthusiast Officer (CEO)

the core of our activities. A creative agency with the

rc@acitymadebypeople.com

mission to make our cities more livable by adding a creative lens to urban issues and solving them through connecting citizens, brands and cities.

From A to B by Rail

@stockholm_madebypeople

#acitymadebypeople

@amsterdam_madebypeople

@vancouver_madebypeople

@chicago_madebypeople

@copenhagen_madebypeople

@minneapolis_madebypeople

@melbourne_madebypeople

@hongkong_madebypeople

CHAPTER 1

What We See Cities are rich with sights that fascinate us: from gleeful green spaces to magnificent museums, from historical buildings to changing neighborhoods. Our cities are a stroller’s paradise, with plenty to keep us entertained.

What do you see in your city?

MADRID

Through the Green Lens: A Botanical Guide to Madrid VANCOUVER

A Developing Neighborhood: Is this the (West) End? PARIS

Modernist Architecture of Le Corbusier: Paris City Guide CHICAGO

99th & Walden: Revival of Beverly on the South Side of Chicago

WHAT WE SEE

Through the Green Lens: A Botanical Guide to Madrid Whether it’s a meal at a green restaurant, a stroll through a city garden or simply stopping to smell the roses at a local florist, there’s no shortage of greenery in the Spanish capital.

Madrid correspondents, Veronica and Leticia, round up the top spots that offer a refreshing and sustainable approach to city living.

Words by VERÓNICA MARTÍN & LETICIA BARBEITO Pictures by PATRICIA CABEZA

Just like a desert oasis, Madrid is full of places

neighborhood—the greengrocers across the street,

one can escape to for refreshment. From hostels

the florist on the corner and the baker on the next

powered by renewable energy to markets tackling

block—to create a community based on proximity.

food waste, here we present a green guide to

We’d happily spend half a day here.

Madrid for those who want to escape the chaotic

Il Tavolo Verde

bustle of urban life.

Concerned about unhealthy food habits and with

Cacto-Cacto

a background in design, Martina and Leo created

Cacti are the coolest. In fact, we’d go as far as

Il Tavolo Verde to provide a space for customers

saying there are few interior spaces that can’t be

to eat organic, sustainable food while shopping

improved by our stylish, prickly friends. And now

for antiques. The café and store was opened

cacti have their own home in Madrid. Located in

in 2013 on Villalar St. When customers walk in

Fernando VI, Cacto-Cacto is a shop exclusively

they find beautiful Scandinavian antiques and

dedicated

succulents.

forgotten objects that create, as the owners say,

Together with its sister flower store, Margarita

to

these

marvellous

“[a] nostalgic experience… memory of forms,

se llama mi amor, Cacto-Cacto has created an

tastes and smells that take us to a better world.”

irresistible forest that entices all who pass by.

Needless to say, Il Tavolo Verde isn’t your typical salad spot.

Pum Pum Café Located in the district of Lavapiés, Pum Pum Café

The Hat

offers an organic vegetarian menu and superb

There’s a local saying, “from Madrid to the sky,”

coffee—the quality of which is not easily found

because the city’s heavens are so iconic. From

in Madrid. It was converted from a butcher’s

its intense blue sunny days to the purple sunsets

shop into what is now a vegetarian haven by two

of summer, a visit to the capital is not complete

Argentinian brothers. The idea was to open a cafe

without rising to one of Madrid’s secret terraces

that would organically interact with the whole

to enjoy the views. But not just any secret terrace.

MADRID

Hermosilla’s secret patio

Botanical garden

Pum Pum CafĂŠ

Honest Gardens

MADRID

Il Tavolo Verde

The Hat

WHAT WE SEE

Cacto-Cacto

“Cities are like people; cities smell distinct, look distinct and regard themselves distinctly.

And yet, there are certain universals.”

You can enjoy the best sunsets and breathtaking

organic, the founders were mindful to not use

views of Madrid’s red roofs from The Hat, a hostel

varnishes, silicones or PVC and instead installed

in the middle of the old town centre. In addition

solar panels and a hanging garden to purify the

to its spectacular views, the hostel is the first in

air. Alongside this, El Huerto de Lucas promotes

Madrid to use biomass as a source of energy. With

sustainable living through regular expositions and

its classic architectural bones and hip furnishings,

workshops, educating citizens on subjects such as

The Hat is a perfect place to unwind, surround

household waste reduction.

yourself with vegetation in the open air and, of

Botanical garden

course, enjoy a cocktail.

Cities are like people; cities smell distinct, look

Hermosilla’s secret patio

distinct and regard themselves distinctly. And yet,

This magical garden is a refuge in the middle of

there are certain universals. Even in the smallest

urban chaos. It’s located in Hermosilla 26’s inner

town, it is easy to find a space reserved for a botanical

patio, a temple of design and fashion shopping. After

garden. Each one is different in its organization or

an unfortunate fire in 2014, Hermosilla 26 reopened

form, but it’s always green—in all its shades. And

to the delight of beauty lovers. This journey of

in the end, the beauty is that it shows the stunning

renewal makes us love this place even more and we

beauty of nature. In the case of Madrid, a visit to the

highly recommend visiting it at least once.

botanical garden is almost obligatory.

El Huerto de Lucas

As the Spanish say, there are colors for every taste.

Welcome to one of the most green, environmen­

So swing by any of these lush, botanical hotspots

tally conscious places in Madrid. El Huerto de

for an injection of greenery during your next visit

Lucas is an organic food market and restaurant

to Madrid. ¢

located in Chueca. But it’s not just the food that’s

MADRID

El Huerto de Lucas

WHAT WE SEE

A Developing Neighborhood: Is this the (West) End? What does the future hold for a neighborhood where development notices continue to pop up and cranes seem to populate every corner?

We spoke to the residents of Vancouver’s charming West End, who have seen their neighborhood change firsthand.

Words by MELISSA GAGNÉ Pictures by OLIVIA SARI-GOERLACH

VANCOUVER

WHAT WE SEE

Vancouver’s West End is perfectly situated.

Most people rent in the West End, but condos

Surroun­ded by beaches, this residential neighbor­

and development notices have been popping up

hood offers a gradual transition from a classic

everywhere, taking down the mom and pop shops

downtown core to the vast city forest that is Stanley

that once characterized the area. As West Enders

Park. Everybody walks in the West End. The rest

do, we walked the streets to ask some of its older

of the city must pass through its quiet streets to

residents how they feel about the rebuilding and

reach prime picnic spots, stunning sunsets and a

its changing effect on their neighborhood.

diverse array of cuisines from around the world.

Homes with character provide a calming sense

Ambrose Lo

of place amongst tree-lined streets and it’s rare to

Hailing from Hong Kong, Ambrose moved to

see the park benches that are scattered through

Vancouver almost 30 years ago and has been a

the neighborhood go unused. Every spring, these

resident in the West End for five years. “This is the

same trees bloom in a colorful palette of pink, red,

only area I want to live in. Not even downtown.

and white, symbolizing the end of the rainy season

It’s one of the few genuine neighborhoods—very

and the beginning of longer days, local markets

diverse and extremely welcoming. It’s what the

and summer festivals. Highly inclusive, this is

planners call the big P: Proximity.” As he sketches

where Vancouver’s LGBT population congregates,

the character homes that have come to define

and where many elderly residents find themselves

this neighborhood, he goes on, “I’m not against

at home.

development per say, but if it hurts the majority,

Ambrose Lo

VANCOUVER

Gladys Bevan and Mary Powell

WHAT WE SEE

“How do the young people get going in Vancouver? They don’t! I think it’s going to become a social problem if we don’t help the young people more than what we are.” something’s wrong… I mean, housing is always a

He has noticed that whenever there has been

problem around the world and Vancouver is just

turmoil or conflict in the world, waves of new

repeating and copying the Hong Kong model. When

people arrive in the West End, including the

I came here there was no pre-sale—it didn’t exist.”

many Syrian refugees that were housed nearby in the three story walk ups that are now either

Gladys Bevan and Mary Powell

gone or being torn down. “Up until recently, I

Seated on a bench, this is the park where Gladys

saw that all of the changes were positive [but

and Mary met three years ago. “You know, [the

now] all those people that lived in walk ups,

West End] hadn’t really changed much in the

they’re being evicted. They’re being replaced by

last 13 years [that I’ve lived here] but now it has,”

towers. Everywhere.”

Gladys explains. When asked how they feel about these changes Gladys tells me, “Well, hopefully

In addition to losing its ability to house those

we’ll have a positive influence on [new residents]

arriving from situations of global conflict, David

because this is a really different neighborhood.

says these new builds aren’t affordable for the

It’s full of people that talk to each other and their

middle income and elderly residents who have

dogs. We know every dog by name—hardly ever

called the neighborhood home for years, “It’s

know the people’s names. We don’t want to see it

just happening too quickly. A lot of [places] are

change a whole lot.” Mary adds, “And we integrate

being bought by offshore money so they’re not

the people into [the neighborhood]. We accept

part of the community. The West End was always

them and welcome them.” Despite this welcoming

a community but now people are just snapping up

nature, Mary says, there is a very real affordability

apartments and then renting them out.”

problem in the West End: “I had a house in the suburbs and I sold it to move down here—that’s

In speaking to these residents, one thing is

the only way I would have been able to do it.

certain—they are open to change as long as

How do the young people get going in Vancouver?

it benefits the people who actually live in the

They don’t! I think it’s going to become a social

neighborhood. People will continue to walk the

problem if we don’t help the young people more

tree-lined streets to reach the beach and the city’s

than what we are.”

lungs, but if the promised luxury of investment properties continues to push people out, will

David O’Donnell

people still know each other’s dogs by name? The

David has lived for 48 years in what is now a

West End has and will continue to evolve for years

heritage home preserved and maintained by its

to come, but only time will tell how its character

tenants. As a long term resident he has witnessed

and spirit live on. ¢

how the West End has evolved over time.

VANCOUVER

David O’Donnell

WHAT WE SEE

Modernist Architecture of Le Corbusier: Paris City Guide Paris is not just grand facades, Haussmannian buildings and world-renowned museums—the world of modernist architecture has also left its mark on the city. Follow along as we uncover the work and legacy of Le Corbusier.

Words & Illustrations by SONJA BAJIC

Modern architecture as we know it wouldn't be

walking down the streets of Paris—from Republique

the same without influential architect and urban

to Notre Dame, dreaming of his Plan Voisin for 18,

planner, Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris, also

yes 18, immense skyscrapers in the Marais area.

known as Le Corbusier.

Our architectural tour of this city would be very different if his plan had ever come to fruition, but

Le Corbusier is well known for defining the five

it stayed a dream. Instead, he designed villas and

principles of modern architecture: an open plan

public buildings, which can still be spotted across

layout, horizontal strip windows, a building

Paris and used to retrace his steps.

elevated on pillars, a roof terrace and free design such as concrete. Since its creation in 1927, this

Starting in the 16th arrondissement of Paris and heading east

ethos has become a signature characteristic of

Villa Cook is a great example of Le Corbusier's

contemporary design and construction.

purist facade and modernist style. It was built

of the façade—all using modern materials

in 1926 as part of a series of houses created for From New York to India, Le Corbusier constructed

prominent Americans whose destinies were

his designs with the belief that he was creating a

connected to Paris, including Michael Stein

world for the people of tomorrow while spending

(Gertrude Stein’s brother), sculptor Lipchitz and

most of his life in Paris. I sometimes imagine him

journalist William Edward Cook.

“Le Corbusier is well known for defining the five principles of modern architecture: an open plan layout, horizontal strip windows, a building elevated on pillars, a roof terrace and free design of the façade.”

PARIS

Villa la Roche

Villa Jeanneret

Villa Ozenfant

Next, check out the Molitor building. Home to Le

you can see the model of his apartment of la Cité

Corbusier, it was the first apartment block in Paris

Radieuse de Marseille.

to have glazed facades and was built over three years using three different types of glass. The

Through the 15th arrondissement to the 14th

architect lived there for 31 years and it’s possible

The first villa to be built by Le Corbusier in

to visit the apartment today (you’ll need to make a

Paris is across the Parc Montsouris in the 14th

reservation though). Molitor became a UNESCO

arrondissement, known as Villa Ozenfant. It

world heritage building in 2016, together with

was made for Amédée Ozenfant, Le Corbusier’s

sixteen of Le Corbusier’s other buildings.

collaborator

on

L’Esprit

Nouveau—a

journal

published between 1920 and 1925. The villa was both Villa la Roche and Villa Jeanneret are about a

a studio and a home for the cubist French painter.

twenty minute walk from Molitor. Built between

Sadly, its original form was altered in 1946 and

1923 and 1925, they are some of the first villas

is now under the protection of the state from any

to

further renovation. It’s still definitely worth the trip!

demonstrate

all

five

principles

of

Le

Corbusier’s modern architecture. Today Villa Jeanneret is the site of the Le Corbusier foundation

From Villa Ozenfant, you can take a walk to

and next to it sits a museum displaying the world's

see the Pavillon Suisse at Cité Internationale

largest collection of Le Corbusier drawings,

Universitaire—a residence for international stu­

studies and plans.

dents in Paris. Each building of the residence is built for a different nation, usually by an architect

Before leaving the west of Paris, if you want to

selected by that nation. In 1930, Switzerland

experience an apartment built for Modulor—Le

insisted that Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanerret be

Corbusier’s blueprint of dimensions of an average

the architects for Pavillon Suisse. Their ‘machine

man—be sure to head northwest to la Cité de

for living’ followed the five principles of modernist

l’Architecture et Patrimoine at Trocadéro. There

architecture and, although on a very limited

Molitor building

Pavillon Suisse

PARIS

Maison Planeix

Villa Savoye

budget, they managed to incorporate dry-wall construction and acoustic separation—very new technologies at the time. Its composition appears to float and looks divine surrounded by the greenery.

Around the corner, in the same assembly of national pavilions, check out Maison du Bresil— the Brazilian residence designed by Le Corbusier alongside Lúcio Costa. Finished in 1957, the

Cité de l’Architecture

“From New York to India, Le Corbusier constructed his designs with the belief that he was creating a world for the people of tomorrow.”

building is a great example of Le Corbusier’s high-density residential design and his use of raw

du Salut. Built as a shelter for more than 500

materials and polychrome colors.

homeless people, it was Le Corbusier’s chance to practise his basic rules on a big scale. It stands on

Finishing off at the 13th arrondissement

pillars, which open up the building’s impressive

As the afternoon turns golden, head towards the

glass facade, and was the first air-conditioned

Pont National to see one of the rare Le Corbusier

building in Paris.

projects built between two walls of neighboring houses, Maison Planeix. This cubist villa with

Last up, for one of the most perfect examples of

pure geometric forms and almost symmetrical

the five modernist principles, jump on a train to

bow-windows follows four out of five of Le

Villa Savoye—located about an hour away from

Corbusier principles of architecture.

central Paris. Carefully designed in response to the orientation of the sun and with nature openly

Some 15 minutes away stands another of Le

invited in, this villa is a great place to wrap up your

Corbusier’s projects and another collective

tour of the work of this iconic architect. ¢

building in Paris—la Cité-refuge de l’Armée

sonjabajic.com @sonjabajic

Maison du Bresil

La Cité-refuge de l’Armée du Salut

PARIS

WHAT WE SEE

99th & Walden: Revival of Beverly on the South Side of Chicago Coffee shops and schools. Pop-ups and a Sunday farmers market.

Retail therapy. Diversity, arts and culture are all a train ride away from downtown Chicago in Beverly. Local businesses and creatives on the strip have formed the Walden Collective to keep growing their roots in the neighborhood and revive Beverly as a place to live, play and connect.

Words by TOULY PHIACHANTHARATH & IVY TAC Pictures by IVY TAC

Beverly is so far south it’s often forgotten by city

serves as a community center utilized for pop-ups,

media. Tucked away behind the tracks on 99th

resident artist studios and even yoga for children.

and Walden, this neighborhood straddling urban

Her positive energy is infectious, as is her passion

and suburban Chicago is a thriving community of

for encouraging others to help build Beverly.

family and female owned businesses.

Retail therapy Beauty and creativity

Megan was also the inspiration and push for Maura

First on the scene was Tranquility Salon Company,

Corrine, one of her clients, to open a business on

a hair salon owned and operated by sisters Katie

99th and Walden in early 2017.

Schickel Barba and Megan Barba since 2007.

“You could say that I am the heart of the salon and

“Owning my own boutique was always a pipe

Megan is the soul,” says Katie, “and all you need

dream,” says Maura, “I worked in retail for years,

to succeed in this world is a little heart and soul.”

moved around and then after having kids I moved back to Beverly where I grew up. Megan from

After a decade of growth, they now occupy the

Tranquility helped push me off that cliff and that’s

stand-alone building directly across the street

how CAPSULE started.”

from their original location which they have converted into Joplin Marley Studios.

Maura spent the last decade helping women build more effortless wardrobes based on the European

Joplin Marley Studios is Megan and Katie’s

idea of a capsule wardrobe, which is all about

co-creative space, which Megan describes as a

quality versus quantity. It’s made of a limited

space “for unlimited inspiration, alignment and

amount of items that mix and match together and

connection—intended for anyone who wishes

are very versatile. “No matter what color, age or

to become their most elevated self.” The space

size, almost every woman who I’ve helped in the

CHICAGO

HOOFDSTUK

CAPSULE

many years said she has a closet full of clothes and

B-Sides Coffee & Tea and now both she and

nothing to wear. My goal was to help people be

Kevin can be found at the railside cafe serving

more thoughtful about what they’re buying and I

coffee as a family.

want it to work in many aspects of their lifestyle,” says Maura. CAPSULE is now a beautiful

The impact of B-Sides and the other new busi­

community destination bringing life to Beverly.

nesses is palpable. They are proudly keeping green by donating their brewed coffee grounds to be

On her place in the community, Maura explains,

used as compost for local residents and community

“We want Beverly to have healthy progress. All

gardens. As O’Malley says, “The community down

of the business owners here on Walden St have

here feeds off each other and the transition of the

the same approach. We all grew up here, we have

businesses on this strip has turned it into a more

families and we want things that are approachable

liveable and sustainable place.”

as a young family.”

Diverse hub of culture and creativity Coffee and records

Beverly is also home to the Beverly Arts Center

Around the same time that Maura was opening her

(BAC), one of Chicago’s premier arts destinations.

business, Karen and Kevin O’Malley moved back

This

to Beverly to raise a family. Commuting to and

a community through diverse, quality arts

from their day jobs, they noticed the lack of coffee

programming, education and entertainment for all

shops near the train station. Karen’s dream was to

ages and levels. Exhibition spaces, music and dance

own her own business, allowing her to spend more

studios, a theater and an art gallery bring together

time with her family and to be a part of a growing

the neighborhood as well as invite outsiders to

community. Seeing an opportunity for a local coffee

contribute themselves. BAC and the Beverly

shop in a high traffic area, they decided to pursue

Arts Alliance host an annual Beverly Art Walk in

Karen’s dream. Within a year she spearheaded

autumn, matching local artists with businesses to

CHICAGO

multifaceted

organization

is

building

WHAT WE SEE

showcase their works of art, music and food. The most recent edition matched artist Kevin Demski with the O’Malley’s of B-Sides Coffee and Tea. Kevin Demski, owner of Sixtyfour Creative, has helped many Beverly businesses develop and thrive. He has done the branding for many local businesses, and is now an artist in residence at B-Sides, Open Outcry Brewing and Joplin Marley Studios. Kevin sees cultivating relationships with local business owners as key to growing a tight community and helping Beverly build itself up, saying, “If you can make a living doing what you love in Chicago you can make it anywhere. We have the strongest population with the toughest backbone so you have to hustle to make it here.”

Joplin Marley Studios

The Walden Collective On the far south side of Chicago, Beverly is rarely mentioned in the media with exception of the south side parade during St. Patrick’s day and the Original Rainbow Cone—a Chicago landmark. The Beverly revival on 99th & Walden is the result of people who are passionate about creating and building a thriving, livable and supportive community.

Locals here encourage new ideas while building relationships with each other, offering support to help their neighborhood community thrive. The Walden Collective is determined to be a beacon for entrepreneurs and artists, creating jobs and supporting the local community. Focusing on livability, the citizens of Beverly are building a community that is accessible, sustainable and continues to grow. ¢

CHICAGO

Sixtyfour Creative

CHAPTER 2

Who We Meet From the everyday to the extraordinary, who amongst our citizens make a difference in our urban environments?

Who impacts, explores and influences the changes we see? Our correspondents go out to meet and celebrate the locals in our cities who are admired by their community and who have a voice for change.

MINNEAPOLIS

It’s a Glam Doll World TOKYO

The Ancient Art of Kimono Tailoring with Mitsuhiro Hiragi LONDON

Getting Reel with Corrina Antrobus of the Bechdel Test Fest SEATTLE

Riding the Seattle Sound Waves with Hardly Art

WHO WE MEET

It’s a Glam Doll World City correspondents, Waqar and Rita, recently had the opportunity to meet the two female powerhouses behind Minneapolis’ favorite donut shop: Glam Doll Donuts. Their story is one of friendship, hip-hop, vintage style and, of course, baked goods.

Words by WAQAR AHMAD & RITA FARMER Pictures by RITA FARMER

What do you get when you mix two lifelong friends

an enlightening trip to the Pacific northwest where

with mutual interests in music, fashion, baking, all

they discovered the world of gourmet donuts, at a

things retro and a dash of glitter? Minneapolis’

time when cupcakes were most definitely on their

darling bakery: Glam Doll Donuts.

way out. They returned home determined to provide an answer to the pressing question on their minds:

When you walk into Glam Doll, one of the

“How is there not a donut shop in Minneapolis?!”

first things you see is the hot pink donut boxes emblazoned with pin-up girls and the bakery’s

Once they decided to open their own shop, the

logo. These boxes have become the Tiffany’s of

ideas started flooding in and the pair got to work,

donuts in Minneapolis, emblematic of the style,

compromising both their sleep and social lives.

femininity, flavor and pizzazz of this instantly

They sought help on their business plan from

iconic shop—owned and operated by two badass

friends at local hip-hop record label, Rhymesayers,

women, Arwyn Birch and Teresa Fox.

where Teresa had interned years before. Also using their combined 18 years experience in the

We sat down with these ladies—over donuts and

restaurant industry, Teresa’s love of baking and

coffee, of course—on a recent spring morning

Arwyn’s eye for style. Their name—representing

to discuss their entrepreneurial journey from

a love of retro fashion and overt femininity—was

waitressing to being crowned Donut Queens of

conceived during a family weekend in a cabin up

Minneapolis. The duo had a lot to talk about, with

north. In other words, they worked their butts off

many recent milestones under their belts: their

to make their dream a reality.

five-year anniversary, the opening of their second shop in December 2017, and even reaching new

Glam Doll Donuts opened its doors on the aptly

follower heights on Instagram.

named Eat Street in south Minneapolis a little over one year later.

Like most great things in life, the idea for Glam Doll Donuts came to Arwyn and Teresa in the form of a holy-shit-we-have-to-drop-everything-and-pursuethis type of revelation. After having tried to make a go of it in Los Angeles—twice—Arwyn and Teresa took

“I’m not perfect; I’m Glam Doll.”

MINNEAPOLIS

WHO WE MEET

“Arwyn and Teresa don’t see themselves as two female business owners who operate within a world dominated by men—rather, they have created their own [dream] world.”

Spend any time with this enthusiastic duo and you’ll soon realize how much of Glam Doll Donuts really is Arwyn and Teresa—the décor, the menu, the music, the overall vibe, they all work together to tell you a story about the two friends.

Teresa in her fabulous Chanel combat boots and Arwyn sporting a vintage dress and perfectly coiffed hair, look right at home among the sparkly pink vinyl couch and gold light fixtures at their northeast shop on the morning of the interview.

Needlepoint art on the walls depict their beloved staff—many of whom have been with them since day one—plus the bathroom wallpaper is made from old snapshot photos Teresa sourced from her grandmother. Every corner of the shop, while both highly personal and authentic, is also meticulously styled for Instagram-worthy moments.

The successful use of Instagram as a tool to promote their business is no accident. Teresa personally oversees the company’s account, having curated and nurtured it from day one. She has built up a large following and is constantly

Since its opening, Glam Doll has consistently

looking for new ways to make an impact through

set itself apart not just by making delicious

social media.

donuts, but by establishing a strong presence in the thriving Minneapolis creative community.

The ladies are also aware of their social

Glam Doll’s early success came, in part, by way

responsibilities, giving back to the community

of their connections to the city’s music scene.

that has nurtured their passion so enthusiastically.

The shop has always made specialized donuts for

Glam Doll has teamed up with Youthlink, a

noteworthy events and now, thanks to help from

Minneapolis homeless shelter for the youth. In

Rhymesayers, it delivers a box of custom donuts to

addition to monetary contributions (50% of their

every performer who plays at iconic Minneapolis

recent fifth anniversary celebration proceeds

music venue, First Avenue. This means the pair

went to the cause), they send boxes of donuts to

are making donuts for some of the hottest musical

their downtown facility. Fraser Minnesota, an

acts in the country, many of whom share photos

organization that primarily serves children and

of these spectacular, personalized creations on

adults with autism is another beneficiary of Glam

their own social media channels. Through this

Doll donuts.

partnership with First Avenue, Arwyn and Teresa have also had the opportunity to hang out with

Arwyn and Teresa don’t see themselves as two

some of their own musical idols, including Wayne

female business owners who operate in a world

Coyne of the Flaming Lips and one of Teresa’s

dominated by men—rather, they have created

personal favorites, 2 Chainz.

their own [dream] world. And it’s one in which

MINNEAPOLIS

WHO WE MEET

“...the décor, the menu, the music, the overall vibe, they all work together to tell you a story about the two friends.” they unapologetically dictate their terms. They

They look forward to continued collaborations

also attract talented employees who want to be a

and partnerships with other Minneapolis creative

part of this world. For them, coming to work every

crews, such as the newly-opened, all-femme

day is like “working in our own version of the

work­space, The Coven. And, in a genius business

movie Empire Records.”

move, the two are making plans in anticipation of the legalization of recreational marijuana in

So what’s next for the amazing Glam Doll world

Minnesota by looking ahead to the world of edibles.

and the women who have created it? Recently returned from a trip to Amsterdam and Ireland,

Arwyn and Teresa describe Minneapolis as a

Arwyn and Teresa brought back many ideas. While

uniquely supportive bubble that fosters creativity

their dream of having their own star on the famous

among its residents. And Minneapolis—whose

First Avenue wall may not have materialized yet

residents flock to Glam Doll in droves—is certainly

(for now, Teresa’s Glam Doll star tattoo will have

lucky the pair didn’t decide to stay in L.A. Our city

to suffice), you can expect to see some exciting

is a little bit sweeter, a little bit cooler and a whole

changes coming up. Think new seasonal menus,

lot more glam because Arwyn and Teresa chose to

in-store events and a strong presence at this

build their dream world here. ¢

summer’s festival circuit. Glam Doll will be at

instagram.com/glamdolldonuts glamdolldonuts.com

Rhymesayer’s hip-hop fest, Soundset, for the first time this year, making custom donuts for the acts (obviously) and having a booth on-site.

MINNEAPOLIS

WHO WE MEET

The Ancient Art of Kimono Tailoring Mitsuhiro Hiragi Hiding away in the outskirts of Tokyo is a small building housing some of the city’s most talented tailors. Using a technique that has been around almost 400 years, these artisans are well known for their handmade kimonos. Meet Mitsuhiro Hiragi, who’s combining traditional and advanced techniques to make sure his family’s kimono business lives on.

Words by MANA WILSON Pictures by TAIGA KATO

Even after centuries, kimonos still fascinate

it was also kind of natural that I would take over

people with their intricate patterns and rich,

the family business.

cultural history. However, people rarely realize handful of specialists with processes that include

Does that mean you learned how to sew from your parents?

spinning, dyeing, weaving and perhaps the most

I guess I could’ve just started at home, but my

humble of all, sewing.

parents wanted me to get training from other

that the making of these garments relies on a

professionals, so I lived with and trained under Although I wear a kimono from time to time, I’ve

professional kimono tailor Mr. Kusakawa for five

never seen the work that goes into making one,

years. He was a really strict teacher, I had to keep

especially the sewing. While classes and workshops

sewing day and night, but he treated me as a profes­

often offer an insight into the more lavish processes

sional from the minute I finished my trai­ning. That

such as embellishment and design, it’s rare to see

was 30 years ago and now he and I are really close.

kimono tailoring firsthand. I decided to meet with

I learned a lot during my time with Mr. Kusakawa

Mitsuhiro Hiragi, a man who has been sewing

then I went back to my home after those five years.

kimonos for 30 years, to find out more.

I see that you use your foot to hold the cloth in place when you sew, how does that work?

Is it a traditional method?

It’s so exciting to meet you Mitsuhiro, I have a lot of questions about the traditional art of kimono sewing. First of all, how did you become a kimono tailor?

Yes, this is how we do it here. This is called ‘otokojitatem,’ which means man-tailoring. It doesn’t

Well my parents are tailors, so I grew up watching

mean when men sew kimonos, rather it refers to

them sew kimonos all day at home. I also like

the way we sit cross-legged like this with bare feet,

things that require precision, like putting together

and hold the cloth with our toes. It’s called ‘otoko-

plastic models. Besides that I’m the oldest son, so

jitate’ when women sew this way too.

TOKYO

WHO WE MEET

It’s also called ‘Tokyo-jitate’ (Tokyo-style tailor­

and posting on Facebook. One of my friends

ing) because it was developed here in Tokyo.

advised me to keep posting for at least three months

Tailors in other areas use a little tool called

and it really changed my world. I kept posting and

‘kukedai’ to hold the cloth, but I guess people in

people began to contact me through the website. I

Tokyo are impatient—using our feet is quicker and

got to know and connect with other people who like

easier. It’s a hard technique to master but now that

kimonos and it really motivated me.

I’m used to it, it’s easier for me to use my feet.

Now, we get the majority of our orders directly

Do you know why this technique is specific to Tokyo?

through our website. I really like that I can ask

It is said to be because of ‘Sankin koutai’, an

look good for them. It means I have to stay on top

administrative system in the Edo Period around

of current fashion and trends though.

customers what they want and discuss what will

the 19th century. Under this system, provincial lords were ordered to relocate to the capital city of Edo every other year.

Do you have any examples of kimonos you’ve custom made for people?

One customer brought me this pretty cloth of

All the lords started to have their clothes made

‘Nagajuban,’ which is something we wear under

in the trendy capital while they were stationed

a kimono. He wanted me to make a kimono with

there. Since there was a demand for high-quality

the cloth inside of it, but look at this pattern, it’s

kimonos for the lords, more tailors came to Edo

so gorgeous, isn’t it? It has Mt. Fuji, hawks and

and developed their own skills.

eggplants—which are famous for good fortune in Japan. I thought it would be a shame to completely

Because of this, ‘Tokyo-jitate’ is famous for its

hide the pattern inside, so I sewed it by the foot,

accuracy. The outer materials and lining are

that way people can see it when the kimono

fastened together into one piece, the stitches are

flutters in the wind.

straight and the corners are pointed.

Do you see a difference from when you first started out to the way you work today?

The kimono industry is divided into a lot of processes and my family specializes in sewing.

Everyday we get orders from shops that sell kimonos specifying the number, style and type of kimono to make. This is the traditional way of ordering that we’ve been doing for hundreds of years. After a few years though, I actually got a little bored of this. I like communicating with people as much as I like making kimonos, but I didn’t have the chance to get to know my customers because ordering was getting in the way.

What did you do to change that?

First I made our website and started writing blogs

“Tailors in other areas use a little tool called 'kukedai' to hold the cloth, but I guess people in Tokyo are impatient— using our feet is quicker and easier.”

TOKYO

WHO WE MEET

“Most kimono making classes are kind of strict or difficult, but people who read my blog already know that I’m not that kind of person.”

How many orders do you usually get?

What do you do on your days off?

Probably around 30 orders every month. Of

It’s rare that I have days off, but I’m currently

course I can’t do it all by myself, but I can usually

taking tea ceremony lessons. It’s partially my work

make one kimono every two days. There are

because I’m always with people who like to wear

also not many tailors who are good at making

kimonos, you know? In the beginning I joined

‘hakama’ (a divided or pleated skirt worn

the lessons to promote my business and get more

over a kimono, mostly for men on ceremonial

orders from them, but now I take some students

occasions), and I enjoy making them. That’s why

from my kimono making class there and it’s fun

a lot people, from all over Japan, will contact me

so I don’t really want to stop.

to get their hakama.

I sometimes make kimonos for myself or my

What else has the internet been able to open up for you?

family when I have time. My daughter had a

I started teaching a kimono making class four

(a special kind of kimono for the ceremony) for

years ago. I enjoy talking with people who like

her from a cloth we chose together.

coming-of-age ceremony so I made a ‘furisode’

kimonos since I haven’t had the chance to talk to class mostly through the internet. Most kimono

And finally, how would you like to see your business grow in the future?

making classes are kind of strict or difficult, but

I want people to know more about kimonos and

people who read my blog already know that I’m

the tailors who make them. As you can see, it’s a

not that kind of person. Most of them want to learn

very traditional and interesting art—having a place

how to fix their own kimono but there’s also, for

like a showroom is my dream. I imagine it like a

example, a father who is trying to make a kimono

bakery where people can see us working through

for his daughter in my class at the moment.

the window. I would probably stop making and go

customers before. The students find out about my

out to talk to people though...

One of the best things about the class is that I can learn how the world works. I’ve been working

Strict, difficult, stubborn. The image of craftsman­

inside this house for decades and didn’t really

ship I had in my mind was completely destroyed

know how companies worked or what young

the second I met Mr. Hiragi. He loves to talk and

people were thinking about. It’s really fun to

his passion for human connection is reflected in

listen to the girls talking about their boyfriends

his growing business and enthusiastic clientele.

in the class. I actually don’t even know if they’re

Next time I need a kimono, I know exactly where

coming to learn about making kimonos or to

I’ll go. ¢

gossip with me!

facebook.com/mituhiro.hiiragi TOKYO

WHO WE MEET

Getting Reel with Corrina Antrobus of the Bechdel Test Fest Meet the powerhouse who started a film festival celebrating women. Some say 2018 is the Year of Women, but Corrina’s helping usher in an age of equity.

Words & Pictures by STEPHANIE ADAMS

LONDON

WHO WE MEET

The Bechdel test, also known as the Bechdel-

cinemas. Growing up in Hackney, there was only

Wallace test, was developed by Beth Bechdel

the Rio. It’s a great cinema I still love to go to, but

and Liz Wallace in 1985. To pass the test, a work

it was the only one. Nowadays we have Hackney

of fiction has to include at least two women who

Picturehouse, we have the Institute of Light,

speak to each other about something other than

Castle Cinema and I’m hearing rumblings of so

a man. In honor of the 30th anniversary of the

many more popping up—so I’m hoping to work

test in 2014, London-based Corrina Antrobus

with them too.

launched the Bechdel Test Fest to celebrate

regularly covered by The Guardian, BBC and

Besides positively representing women, how are you choosing the films that are shown at the festival?

The Independent, among others, and recently

We have to like the films. And since the Bechdel

garnered Corrina a Woman and Hollywood

test is fundamentally about conversations with

Trailblazer Award.

women, we want to be able to have a conversation

the work of women in film. Since then it has grown into an ongoing film festival that’s

about the film after the screening. This means it has Corrina’s Bechdel Test Fest is organized and

to evoke themes that we can discuss afterwards.

attended by Londoners, but she doesn’t see it as a

We have the directors or the talent come in and

“London only” event. Celebrating women in film

then we play with the form of a Q&A... We look at

publicly can be done in any community, anywhere

how we can engage the audience and make people

in the world. Putting together such a festival is about

feel comfortable about the experience.

loving film, women and community. Who says a little escapism can’t move the conversation forward?

What kind of things do you do to make people feel comfortable?

I recently spoke with Corrina about how she

There’s no big stage or microphone and

makes the festival happen and how it’s bringing

we pay attention to the simple things, like

people together across London.

[acknowledging] there’s lots of women in the crowd who don’t often feel comfortable about

Can you tell me about the logistics of putting together the film festival? What’s involved?

speaking up. One of my favorite conversations was after a screening of Mustang. We were all in

Well from the very start, setting it up, you need time. The actual nuts and bolts is just having ideas, enthusiasm and people who will help make it work—getting volunteers, hearing ideas, pooling talents from lots of different people, and then choosing good films and working with good venues.

Tell me about choosing the venues. Most of them look like they are in east London. Is that because it’s where you’re based?

It’s easier for me, yes. east London is slowly becoming much more of a hotbed for cinema activity. You’ve got lots more film clubs putting on screenings in clubs and other venues aside from

“There has been a shift. It’s unfortunate that it’s been the result of such a monstrosity of events but there is no going back now…”

LONDON

WHO WE MEET

we could all make eye contact with each other.

How much of your time does Bechdel Test Fest take up these days?

The human interaction of people talking about a

A lot. If I wanted it to, it could literally take up every

shared experience is something I get a real kick

waking hour of my day but I have to be good to

out of achieving.

myself. I know what it’s like to burn out and realize

a big circle and everyone was on the same level,

you don't have infinite energy—things like eating,

Regarding the audience, what are they like and has it changed since you started four years ago?

sleeping and seeing people you love is important.

It really depends on the film. I love when we have an

and it’s not a money making exercise and one has to

abundance of men in the cinema because that’s kind

survive.” But I’m so, so glad I didn’t quit. When we

of the point. We don’t want to be screaming into an

have people saying, “I would never have seen this if

echo chamber, telling other women that we’re good

you hadn’t put it on and I would never have thought

to watch on screen. We know this, but it’s good to

about this in that way if it wasn’t for the Bechdel

have guys in the audience who love it as well.

Test Fest”—that makes me happy... And just seeing

That’s something I had to relearn in the second year when I almost quit. I was like, “I can’t do this,

“Celebrating women in film publicly can be done in any community, anywhere in the world.”

WHO WE MEET

wanting to continue being part of that community,

Do you feel like it’s affecting the programming you’re going to do this year?

it makes me realize that we have to continue.

I don’t know yet. It will affect my day to day job

so many other film collectives come up after us,

because I’m also working for Sundance London. Of

Outside of the film industry, are you seeing a community start to develop?

the main features we’ll show, 58% are female-led

Yeah, absolutely. You’ve got people who exhibit,

the #MeToo movement in industry talks.

and we’re introducing conversations addressing

journalists, but ultimately we’re all under the same umbrella of film. There are people, and I am one

But I also want to make sure Bechdel remains

of them, who will just go to the cinema because

a celebration of female work in film, so I don’t

they love the cinema experience, [and together]

want us to dwell too much on the negative things

you don’t feel so strange that you just like sitting in

that are happening. It’s important to address the

the dark watching a film… especially after the few

work that is being done, but I also want to make

years that we’ve been doing it you get people who

sure we’re using cinema as an escapist tool, as

are like, “Oh, I went to that event this year and that

well as understanding each others narratives,

year.” It’s really nice to have regulars.

backgrounds and stories. I'm not ruling it out, but it’s not the sole agenda.

Right now, we’re in the middle of what feels like a defining moment in film history— particularly for women. How do you view your work in the context of the #MeToo and Time’s Up movements?

And finally, what are you most excited about at the moment?

Beth [my partner in the Bechdel Test Fest] and I are going to Docfest, which I think is the best

Well, it’s quite the year and hopefully it will be

documentary festival in the world... maybe we’ll

quite the lifetime. There has been a shift. It’s

do something there. We want to make sure we’re

unfortunate that it’s been the result of such a

doing some more women of color stories and

monstrosity of events but there is no going back

we’re partnering up with the Underwire Film

now... When we first started there seemed to be a

Festival in November. Although hopefully we’ll do

lot of talk about women in film, about supporting

some stuff before then too.

female directors, but there wasn’t a lot of work done to back it up. Now I feel there’s much more

Next year is our fifth anniversary, which blows my

of a collective insistence that we will not go back

mind because I feel like I’ve been doing this for

to that unhealthy way of working—it’s a very slow

about two weeks. We’ll have to do something big

ship to turn, but it’s happening.

because this was only supposed to be a one year project, a one year tribute to the Bechdel test and

Are you working with any of these groups around London?

because so many people liked it it just carried on.

Now it’s a thing. It’s a real thing!

We have fortnightly meetings with Time’s Up UK, as well as subgroups within it. There are a lot of

Thank you! ¢

women at the top who are bringing women in to

bechdeltestfest.com

make sure these systematic, practical changes are made. It’s unfortunate that all that work falls on us when we're not the ones at fault, but it’s happening and I feel more positive than ever.

LONDON

WHO WE MEET

Riding the Seattle Sound Waves with Hardly Art Seattle's music scene is thriving, and still as vibrant as ever.

Let's explore the sound waves of the city and discover the story of Hardly Art. Words by LINDSEY POTTER Pictures by SAM GEHRKE

The Seattle music scene is often laden with

when it were nominated for a Genius Award by

references to some of the greats such as Jimi

one of Seattle’s major alternative newspapers,

Hendrix, Nirvana and Pearl Jam. More recently

The Stranger. And the label does not appear to be

we have a new wave of young Seattle-grown artists

showing signs of slowing down!

like Macklemore and Odesza who have gained stardom in their own right. But there is a whole

The A City Made By People team in Seattle was

crop of talented musicians who are establishing

lucky enough to interview Jason Baxter, publicist

themselves in the city’s sound waves by joining

for Hardly Art, who gives us a behind-the-scenes

Seattle-based record label Hardly Art’s repertoire.

look at the growing label.

Sub Pop Records is an independent record label known across the country, representing successful

How long have you been with Hardly Art and how did you get started with the label? Did you always intend to work in the music scene?

bands such as Beach House, Band of Horses, Father

I’ve been working for the label for six years now.

John Misty and The Shins. What many outside of

Prior to that, I’d been working as a freelance

Seattle may not know is that Sub Pop has a smaller

journalist—primarily with a focus on music—

founded in 1988 in Seattle. The label has become well-

sister label called Hardly Art. It was established in 2007 with the intention to focus on acquiring smaller local bands. With its humble beginnings, Hardly Art has really exceeded all expectations and has become a strong force in the community.

Hardly Art is powered by a team of three who represent dozens of artists including La Luz, Chastity Belt and Dude York. The label found success by not only acquiring local bands, but by extending its reach outside of Washington State.

In 2016, the label was recognized for its work

“The lion’s share of the credit should absolutely go to the artists. Our job is to facilitate their success.”

SEATTLE

WHO WE MEET

and doing some promotion for local all-ages

setting adventure, but the reality is it’s primarily a

venues as well. Since working at the University

desk job just like any other.

of Washington’s student-run radio station, Rainy industry was where my career path would take me.

Can you describe the style of music usually represented by Hardly Art?

When the publicist position at Hardly Art opened

Well, we try not to box ourselves into any one

up, I leapt at the chance to throw my name into

corner genre-wise, but I will say that the ongoing

consideration. I couldn’t be happier to have been

mission of the label since its inception has been to

hired by a label that’s so nurturing and supportive

seek out and elevate emerging talent, both locally

of its artists.

and abroad.

You have made a career of such an amazing passion that involves so many projects. How would you best explain your daily work life?

What are some artists or songs that you are currently obsessed with?

Remarkably unglamorous. The simple answer is

are Lisa Prank, Hoop, Versing and Crater (which

that I email all day, pitching coverage, following

still sort of counts). I’ve been listening to a lot of

up, etc. Some of my other duties for Hardly Art

Daddy Issues, Negative Gemini, Stef Chura and

(social media and finding new artists to sign) fill

Kero Kero Bonito. In my downtime, I like to listen

up the rest of my time. Movies and television tend

to sophistipop and yach rock.

Dawg Radio, I felt pretty confident that the music

That aren’t on the roster? Some local bands I like

to depict the job as some kind of constant, jet-

SEATTLE

WHO WE MEET

What’s the process for bands to be signed with the label? I read that the label has acquired more artists that are not from the Pacific Northwest—has that area grown a lot recently? Do the artists usually seek out Hardly Art or vice versa?

our breath. However, this year is going to be full

The million-dollar question! We get sent demos

@hardlyartrecords hardlyart.com

of great albums and big surprises that I’m not at liberty to blab about just yet. But we will be busy, that’s for certain. Expect new music from some returning favorites as well as an infusion of some amazing new talent into our roster. ¢

constantly and we do our best to get through them, but more often we find bands by keeping an open mind and one ear to the ground so that we stay on top of what’s new and exciting, both in Seattle and elsewhere. Some of our roster has been built through word of mouth—recommendations from peers in the industry, bands already in our family or co-workers. Other times it could be a band we caught live and were impressed by, or found through cruising the internet.

Hardly Art was a nominee for the 2016 Stranger Genius Award! That is amazing, especially considering the label started in 2007. What do you think contributes to the labels success?

The lion’s share of the credit should absolutely go to the artists. Our job is to facilitate their success. We were incredibly honored to have been considered for that award, especially just one year after one of our bands (Chastity Belt) had been nominated in the same category. I’d like to think that being successful in this little experiment of ours is due mostly to our commitment to embracing and supporting the vision of our artists—enabling them to reach as many people as possible and trying not to compromise their creativity at any point along the way.

Is there anything new for Hardly Art on the horizon? Any special events or collaborations our readers can look forward to?

Seeing as we just put a lot of work into celebrating our tenth anniversary (including two concerts, a zine and a rarities compilation), I think the three of us wish we could stop and take a second to catch

SEATTLE

Local Talent

What inspiration do creatives take from living in urban environments? Our cities are a breeding ground for creativity, and it’s about time we get inspired and celebrate the creatives within them. Our correspondents spotted thriving talents that deserve a stage to share their passion. Let’s hear it from various talents in Amsterdam, Madrid, Hong Kong and Bucharest.

Kevin Rijnders

LOCAL TALENT

Serano Pinas Dancer, performer, teacher and co-founder of Urban Heroes

What inspired you to become a performer?

I decided to become a dancer when I was 19. I love

You teach kids and co-founded Urban Heroes. What is that about?

music and I just love to move, so combining both

Amsterdam has a lot of talent, but we realized

made me what I am today. Most importantly, I felt

they need places to dance and to learn about the

the urge to share that with others as well, resulting

art form… that’s why I co-founded the foundation

in teaching and trying to inspire others.

Urban Heroes. I want to teach kids that it’s okay to make mistakes, that they can learn from them and

How would you describe your style?

grow. But most importantly, to have them find out

I graduated from the AHK/Amsterdam Dance

what they’re good at, a mission we like to achieve

Academy, trained in traditional and technical

through hip-hop, dancehall, contemporary, afro,

styles such as classical, modern, house and jazz.

breakdance and tricking.

But I like to take inspiration from all these styles and form them into my own style. It’s hard to be

Liveability in Amsterdam for you is…

put in a single box but still remain exciting.

Everything: living, dancing, the people: I just love this city.

Is Amsterdam a great source of inspiration for a dancer?

nederlandvolhelden.nl/urbanheroes

Absolutely, every area in the city reflects its own culture. Amsterdam is a great place for a variety of art forms and we take a lot of inspiration from it. In comparison to other cities, I’d say it’s very diverse. There’s a large mix of cultures and styles, and the perfect space to explore and grow as a young talent.

AMSTERDAM

LOCAL TALENT

“Mia” Cayetana Soto de Carcillán Fashion designer of Los Pecos Mutantes - LPM

If fashion wouldn’t have worked for you, where would you be today?

something else. I grew up there and learned a lot

Fashion is a way of expression, where I can

time for a bigger reality to conquer and that’s why

communicate hopefully more than just aesthetics.

I came back, renewed. Madrid, after so long felt

So if fashion wouldn’t have been my scenario, I’m

new, with an interesting social scene of young

sure I would have involved myself in some kind of

people looking for new things and in the need for

creative environment. I guess I would have opened

something different.

about life, but with my business I realized it was

a studio where all kind of artists could come with their ideas and projects and bring them to life.

How does the city influence your work?

This is basically something I still want to do, and

We’ll be launching LPM’s next collection soon and

probably will try to do one day as part of LPM.

I’m sure without even realizing it, that Madrid and all that I have experienced here will be reflected.

What is the relationship between your work and music?

The garments, the color palette, etc. In terms of

Everything! When I was living in Italy, my house

it’s obvious that being in a bigger city brings new

was full of musicians coming and going from all

opportunities. LPM has been well recognized

parts of the world to spend time in the beauty of

inside the fashion industry and that is not easy

Tuscany and the chaos of our house. Jam sessions

nowadays when fashion has become about so

took part every night, and my living room was a

much nonsense.

how Madrid has influenced LPM as a company,

testimony and studio for composers to find their artists, writers, painters, actors, cinema directors,

What is the best aspect of Madrid for you in terms of livability?

photographers are what really influenced LPM.

Come on! Seriously? I couldn't live in a better

inspiration. It’s not just the music too, but all those

place where I can fully enjoy my freedom and have

You’ve lived in Florence for a while now, why did you leave Madrid and what made you come back?

a quality life. I'm looking for a place where I can

I left for 12 years to be precise, and I was really

and I like to enjoy life even harder, and for that I

young when I left Madrid. The environment was

need to be surrounded by beautiful things.

too conservative for me and I was looking for

lospecosmutantes.com

express who I am and what I am trying to create, never forgetting how I want to live. I work hard,

MADRID

Marta Aguilar

HOOFDSTUK

STADSNAAM

LOCAL TALENT

Sampson Wong Urbanist and artist

What motivated you to be a public intellectual?

As an artist, what is the work you are most proud of?

The first presentation I did during my under­

I am very proud of the various collaborative

graduate years was about Edward Said. Since

projects I have initiated with the artist Jason

then, I’ve been very interested in intellectuals and

Lam and the add oil team–Add Oil Machine,

especially thinkers who foster public deliberation.

Countdown Machine, Broadcast Machine and

There is also a strong tradition of scholars from the

so on. They are projects about consciously

Chinese University of Hong Kong to participate

participating in public dialogues. I am interested

in public affairs, which has greatly influenced my

in exploring more possibilities of creating art

imagination about intellectuals.

projects that are connected to contemporary spatial culture.

What about Hong Kong is the biggest inspiration for your practice?

There is a very vibrant public sphere co-created

Five years from now, where do you see yourself?

by scholars, activists, artists and journalists

I hope I would have published books on Hong

before and after the Umbrella Movement (Hong

Kong’s culture and urbanism by then.

Kong’s occupy movement) in 2014. The flow of ideas is a constant inspiration for my practice.

Sampson

The urban landscape and complexity of the built

publications and zines on urbanism in November

environment of Hong Kong remain to be the

2017. A city enthusiast walked in and found the A

biggest inspiration too.

City Made By People magazine. This was how the

initiated

a

pop-up

bookstore

Hong Kong chapter started.

What kind of conversation should we foster to make Hong Kong more liveable?

A conversation reflecting on the city’s colonial

sampsonwong.hk instagram.com/sampson_wong

legacy in its many aspects, for example the unique brand of developmentalism that has emerged since the 1980s.

HONG KONG

with

Bertha Wang

HOOFDSTUK

STADSNAAM

Tiberius Hodoroabă

LOCAL TALENT

Felicia Simion Fine art photographer and retoucher

What’s the relationship between your work and Bucharest?

Are there any places that inspire you?

During my university years, I lived somewhere on

historical houses near Piata Unirii, Universitate

the Magheru Boulevard and got inspired by the

or Piata Romana, as well as the Cotroceni and

view from my window. Sometimes, I think that

Dorobanti area.

I feel inspired when I walk the streets which bear

in order to get inspired by a certain place, you Bucharest and when I came back, I felt like there

What is the best aspect of Bucharest for you in terms of liveability?

was more to search for.

The life that’s going on in it! And as I have

must first detach from it for a little while. I left

discovered, the fact that you can be in a small

How does the city influence your work?

neighborhood with nice people, markets and quiet

Last year I was in Deauville, France for a

streets while being close to the vivid center as well.

photographic residency. I did a project called Not

feliciasimionphotography.com

from here, where I immersed myself in various places in the city, wearing a costume which covered my whole body. I would love to continue this kind of work, mixing Bucharest’s beautiful architecture with conceptual portraiture.

BUCHAREST

The Cost of Living in…

(average rounded cost provided by our network)

One bedroom apartment Bucharest

€250 / $300

Madrid

€850 / $1000

Hong Kong

€900 / $1050

Copenhagen €940 / $1100

Caffè latte Amsterdam

€2.50 / $3

Madrid

€2.50 / $3

Vancouver

€2.50 / $3

Melbourne

€2.50 / $3

Bucharest

€3.50 / $4

Minneapolis

€3.50 / $4

Stockholm

€4.25 / $5

Hong Kong

€4.25 / $5

Chicago

€5 /

$6

Copenhagen

€8 /

$9.50

Amsterdam

€1100 / $1295

Melbourne

€1100 / $1295

Stockholm

€1145 / $1350

Minneapolis

€1250 / $1450

Vancouver

€1325 / $1550

Chicago

€1525 / $1800

#acitymadebypeople

Visit to the cinema Bucharest

€4.50 / $5.50

Madrid

€9 /

$11

Hong Kong

€10 /

$11.50

Minneapolis €8.50 / $10 Vancouver

€9 /

$11

Stockholm

€11 /

$13

Melbourne

€11 /

$13

Amsterdam

€12.50 / $15

Chicago

€13.50 / $16

Copenhagen €15 /

Ten minute taxi ride Bucharest

€2.50 / $3

Hong Kong

€4 /

$5

Melbourne

€8 /

$9.50

Madrid

€8 /

$9.50

Vancouver

€8 /

$9.50

Minneapolis

€8.50 / $10

Chicago

€11 / $13

Amsterdam

€15 / $18

Stockholm

€17 / $20

Copenhagen

€20 / $23.50

$18

CHAPTER 3

Why We Create Do we create for fun and adventure? Or are we creating to build bridges and connect with others? Creating is a way we choose to express ourselves and the experience of our lives: to record fragments of our thoughts, feelings and memories. Whatever the reason, we create with purpose. Let’s create a better city together!

AMSTERDAM

The Ball is Open to All BUCHAREST

Entering a Virtual Reality, One Artwork at a Time: This is One Night Gallery MELBOURNE

Behind the Roller Door: Northcity4, Brunswick STOCKHOLM

Seeing the Unseen: Creating Space for Diversity in Stockholm’s Art Scene

WHY WE CREATE

The Ball is Open to All Vogue ballroom culture, once a refuge for New York’s LGBTQ community, has duck-walked its way across the continent and into the hearts of Amsterdam’s fiercest women.

Words by ASHANYA INDRALINGAM Pictures by RICHARD RIGBY

“3, 4, 5, 6! Hips, strut, dip, YES!” On cue, we

had latched onto it as a way to be both feminine

sashay to a halt and each attempt our own versions

and fierce on the hip-hop dance floor. And in

of a ‘death drop.’ I land hard, my legs awkwardly

Amsterdam, even more are finding a sense of

splayed in a macabre Raggedy Ann doll pose.

empowerment and expressionism within the

Next to me, Richard winces as he attempts to

permissive space of the ball scene.

arch his back sexily. All the while, looming over our beginner class of vogue femme hopefuls, stands Ambiance. All legs in thigh-high velvet

Amber Vineyard

stilettos, her booming falsetto echoes through the Compagnie Theater: “And that is how you vogue, darlings!”

Mother of the house If anybody’s entitled to the last word on vogue­ing, it’s Ambience, or Amber Vineyard as she's known off the runway. A California-born transplant to the Netherlands, Amber is widely credited as the founding firecracker of the Dutch ball scene, and the reigning mother of the House of Vineyard—the only ball house to originate in Europe.

Balls, in this context, are an urban riff on ballroom dancing, replacing the waltz with vogueing and the dancefloor with a runway. This subculture has its roots in the black and Hispanic communities of 1980s Harlem, New York, where it ignited as a response to ‘queens of color’ being excluded from mainstream drag events. Yet by the time vogueing found its way to Europe, flowing first through the whacking and B-boy scenes of the 1990s, women

AMSTERDAM

Ambience

Ellie

WHY WE CREATE

Elvin Elejandro Martinez

that range from butch femme and face to realness with a twist. The goal is to convince the judges— most of them ball royalty themselves—that you aren’t faking it.

“Where in life you may get slammed for being yourself, at a ball you’re judged if you’re not showing off your most authentic self,” says Amber who, fittingly, competes in the sex siren category. “That’s why I’ve always found balls to be a powerful tool for women to express themselves and play around with the characteristics of both genders.”

The balls to be yourself Backstage on the day of the Gender is Fluid ball, the dressing room is a lively hum of activity, the drag version of a pregame locker room. The disappearance of a pair of scissors throws a pair of dressmakers into a panic, while across the room a tall, blond Dutch man struts up to a mirror, hands on his hips and stops to assess the tulle fabric draped across his lean body. I find a spare seat next to Thaynah Rodrigues, 21, a bubbly Brazilian Richard, the photographer on this story, and I first

with perfectly tanned skin and cheekbones that

meet Amber on the eve of the Gender is Fluid

could cut glass. She entertains my questions as

ball, an event hosted by the House of Vineyard

two fashion students painstakingly glue pearls

in collaboration with the Ish Collective. We find

onto her breasts.

Amber clad in an oversized mens shirt and black military boots, simultaneously coordinating stage

Thaynah entered the scene as a teenager and

set up and hosting a pre-event vogue femme

credits ball with giving her an outlet to mature into

workshop (one that Richard and I later attend in the

herself. “It allows me to explore different versions

name of research). She looks like a far cry from the

of myself. I compete in face now, but maybe I’ll

larger than life personality we had seen peacocking

try sex siren soon. Each time, Amber helps me get

in leather stirrups on Instagram or YouTube.

into character but it’s more than acting. It’s the permission to be the version of myself I actually

Online and on the runway, Amber and her ‘kids’

want to be.”

(a term of endearment used to describe the members of a house), are often heavily made up,

Her ‘sister’, 29-year old Barbie Vineyard, finds

mostly in a mix of thematic glam and glitter—the

a different purpose in the community. I first

kind of gender-bending pageantry popularized by

noticed Barbie on the runway, arms cutting

drag queens. In ball, the runway is your stage, and

fiercely through the air, her body contorting into

participants ‘walk’ in highly nuanced categories

impossible positions, competing in an intense

AMSTERDAM

Debbie Ruijter

Thaynah Rodrigues

Barbie

Thaynah

WHY WE CREATE

whacking competition. Up close, Barbie, née

After years of traveling to balls across Europe,

Debbie Ruijter, is a dead ringer for a young Uma

learning the difference between the old way and

Thurman, all legs and angles, with a closely

the new way, and listening to mentors like Archie

shaven head that accentuates her sharp jawline.

Burnett and Laissandra of the House of Ninja, Amber finally felt called to pioneer the Dutch ball

Debbie, who found her calling in the arts, most

scene. “I wanted this to be a space for women but

recently appeared in the dance theater production

I also wanted to honor where it came from: the

of Role Models at Stadsschouwburg and is far

LGBTQ and people of color communities.” She

less extroverted than her alter ego Barbie, who

continues, “the dance community gagged a little

walks European runway. Debbie is a born and

bit when I said ‘What I’m doing with the ball, it

bred Amsterdammer, but getting folded into the

may not be for you.’”

Vineyard clan has taken some of the glare off her rose-tinted glasses: “I’m proud of my city. But

That rainy afternoon in the studio, as I watch

being in the ball scene, I’ve learned so much about

Amber transform into Ambiance, donning a jet

the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community.

black wig, a latex thong and a top made of nothing

And even more about my straight, white privilege.

but a set of chains, I begin to understand why

It’s brought a lot of things to the surface and made

this petite force of nature fights tooth and nail to

me realize this city isn’t actually as open as it

safeguard this refuge for expressionism. Sitting

should be.”

amidst the scattered feather boas, nude pasties and 9-inch pleather boots, I wonder how many

A safe space of one’s own

more of the loud and the weird, the proud and the

I ponder over Debbie’s assertion as I bike home,

gay, the dancers and the dreamers are creating

so invigorated by the electric energy of the ball

their very own version of Amsterdam. ¢

that I barely notice the howling wind and rain

facebook.com/houseofvineyard

cascading down my face. As an expat, I’d come to Amsterdam seeking just the kind of acceptance But on a daily basis, the city delivers a kind of

Categories in Ball Culture vogue femme

picture-postcard beauty that seems only skin

A walk with that incorporates catwalk,

deep. Does Amsterdam keep its realest and rawest

duck-walk, hand performance, floor performance

self hidden from public view?

and the dip.

and alternative vibe that I had witnessed tonight.

realness with a twist A few weeks later, Amber and I chat about this

Judged on a participants’ ability to blend in

exact nuance of Dutch culture during a photoshoot

with heterosexuals, then return to vogue.

with members of the House of Vineyard. “You

face

would think there’d be more spaces for different

The participant must sell their face, like they

people to express themselves in this city, but there

are on a photo shoot set for a major fashion

really isn’t. We have inclusive spaces that aren’t

magazine.

necessarily also safe spaces,” says Amber, who

sex siren

herself faced derision when she first started the

Participants do their best to tease, and titillate

ball scene.

the judges by stripping or erotic dancing.

AMSTERDAM

“It’s more than acting. It’s the permission to be the version of myself I actually want to be.”

WHY WE CREATE

Entering a Virtual Reality, One Artwork at a Time: This is One Night Gallery If you’re a traditionalist, you might think technology would only chip away at the coveted mystery of art.

On the other hand, if you’re a 2018 art aficionado, you might see it as a chance for a different perspective.

Words by DIANA BOGDAN Pictures by ONE NIGHT GALLERY

Do you remember the scene from Amelie (2001)

of digital storytelling and giving the public the

with Renoir’s painting Luncheon of the Boating

opportunity to interact with art in a different way.”

Party? Amélie feels the woman, sipping from a

Mădălina adds, “By making use of virtual reality,

glass in the center of the image, is gazing out of the

we can drive the public to places they have never

frame, seemingly uninterested, while everyone

been and the artists can create works that may

else enjoys their day together. Don’t you long to see

never have been possible before.”

what the so-called ‘girl with the glass’ is seeing?

Well, that’s where modern technology could come

The first edition of One Night Gallery took

in. More precisely, the type of technology that

place in December 2017 purely as a platform for

presents a reality different to the one we ordinarily

showcasing Romanian graphic designers. The

see, touch and feel—a virtual reality.

event was put together by Sorina Topceanu, a former PR specialist who decided to leave her job

One Night Gallery is a monthly event in Bucharest

working for Romanian Design Week to pursue an

that offers just this. Presenting a different perspec­

old dream—supporting the local art community.

tive when it comes to all things art, the gallery uses

Despite over ten years of professional experience,

virtual reality headsets as “a unique way of exper­

the gallery was Sorina’s first time developing a

imenting with the imagination.” Mădălina Ivașcu,

project completely from scratch with only her own

one of the founders, describes the concept as “an

brief to follow.

immersive medium through which the artistic per­ ception can take various forms.”

Mădălina joined the project for the second edition and brought technology into the equation. Her

“The purpose of the gallery is to give a compre­

prior experience working with virtual reality

hensive viewpoint regarding art. Our aim is to

meant Mădălina knew the immersive effect it

be a bridge between the artists and their public,

can have and it was something she’d always

both challenging artists to to use new instruments

wanted to bring to the art world. And so, One

BUCHAREST

WHY WE CREATE

“Step by step, art will become more accessible—we’ll discover artists from all over the world and explore their works no matter where we are.”

Night Gallery became an event for supporting

public appreciate our project. Artists have already

local contemporary artists, with a VR twist. Not

written to us saying that they want to be a part

forgetting the after-party that follows, which has

of One Night Gallery and the number of guests

built up quite a reputation.

significantly grows from one edition to the next. For instance, over 700 people attended our last event!”

The event now takes place at Verde stop / Halle on 162 Barbu Văcărescu, a location we definitely

We live in a world where technology and infor­

recommend checking out next time you’re in

mation, be it artistic or not, has become more

Bucharest. Artists who have already been featured

and more accessible, meaning limitations have

include digital designer Bianca Dumitrașcu and

become less and less real. One Night Gallery is

her series Type Is Sexy / The Playing Type / My

just one example that supports this idea, allowing

Mind Has No Character Limit; and local graffiti

people to get in touch with a type of creativity that

collective Sweet Damage Crew, who came to shed

wouldn’t have been possible years ago.

some fresh light on the street art phenomenon.

“Step by step, art will become more accessible— The most recent edition showcased the work

we’ll discover artists from all over the world and

of illustrator Livia Fălcaru, a young artist with

explore their work no matter where we are. Artists

a uniquely discrete style. Livia presents a range

will attain more visibility because soon they will

of converging universes using a multitude of

not be constrained to a physical space during an

mediums—from canvas to augmented reality, to

exhibition,” Mădălina concludes.

the tactile, the virtual and back.

With the physical walls of a gallery no longer a Sorina and Mădălina organize each exhibition

limit, it seems event spaces and creative media are

alongside the artists on display and each One

just the starting point for exhibitions of the future.

Night Gallery concept is set and styled according

This could mean bringing contemporary art into

to the showcased works. On top of this, each visitor

the city space and we can’t wait to see what this

receives a pair of VR glasses as they enter the

does for Bucharest. ¢

exhibition which they wear for an exclusive live

facebook.com/onenightgallery

drawing performance. At every event, the featured artists create a live piece using VR—giving guests a sneak peek into their creative process.

Mădălina explains, “We believe that all of these pieces have put together a puzzle that matters. So we’re happy to see that both the artists and the

BUCHAREST

WHY WE CREATE

Behind the Roller Door: Northcity4, Brunswick Melbourne is home to many artists and creatives across a range of different fields. Each require specific tools and spaces to produce an end product, but as an up-and-coming jeweler this isn’t always straightforward, especially when the tools needed are very large and expensive.

Words by NETTA JUSTICE Pictures by SARAH CAUST

I was surprised to learn that there is a thriving

Northcity4 has called the Brunswick warehouse

jewelry community in Melbourne, varying in

home since 2011, “It started out as seven or eight

a range of design styles and techniques, some fresh

people working in the front studio and the back

out of university and others who have been

area was a school where we used to run workshops.

refining their skills for years. You’ll find many

The school closed at the end of last year as

of these artisans at Northcity4, a work­ space

we decided to focus our energy on providing

for jewelry makers set in a large warehouse in

professional development for jewelers rather than

Brunswick.

the general public. It’s just much more rewarding for us and means we’ve got more time to spend on

This industrial co-working space was founded

our own pieces.”

by Anna Davern and Ali Limb, both established jewelers with over 20 years experience in the

The large, open plan workspace is broken into

field. Previously based at e.g.etal in the city, the

smaller work stations for 13 resident artists who each

pair were frustrated with the lack of room

have their own studio space. In the center of the

available. Anna explains, “tiny, small spaces

room there are communal machines such as welders,

would have six or seven jewelers working their

engravers, polishers and any bench tools required.

traditional jewelry with one bench and that’s it. The idea of having a more communal space

There’s a private front room to consult with

evolved from there.”

clients and a kitchen area, where the team has family style lunches. “We really wanted it to be

Together they decided to create a space where

open plan, there are no walls and people keep

designers could network but continue to work

their things low. The individual work spaces are

independently at the same time. At Northcity4,

all different sizes and can be adjusted, it depends

jewellers exchange knowledge and learn new

on the type of jeweler. One of the main differences

techniques they can then put towards their own

between contemporary and traditional jewelers is

projects. In this workspace model, sharing tools

they use different types of machinery and have

and equipment just makes sense.

different storage needs.”

MELBOURNE

The great thing about Northcity4 is the versatility

Anna is excited about the prospect this has for

of what they offer. As well as the longer term

the next generation of jewelry makers, “they can

artists with more permanent studios, there’s also

come here and learn from their peers how to set

the option of renting out a project space for three

up a small independent business—because there’s

or six months—perfect for those preparing for an

a lot involved. We all share skills and ideas, it’s a

exhibition or completing the final touches on a

dynamic way of doing things, you don’t have to

range. You can even rent an access space desk for

be here full time. We are very much larger than

just a half day if you need to use a machine you

our community here—it’s about supporting the

may be lacking to finish a piece.

jewelry community as a whole.”

“We all share skills and ideas, it’s a dynamic way of doing things, you don’t have to be here full time. We are very much larger than our community here—it’s about supporting the jewelry community as a whole.”

MELBOURNE

Northcity4 works through a culture of generosity

Every year Northcity4 opens its roller door

and sharing; any new artists wanting to rent a

for a day of markets and fun activities, usually

space must fit into that ethos to become part of

in December. With a rotating flux of jewelry

the family.

designers, this workspace has got everything going for it and, perhaps most importantly, its

During my visit I was surprised to see so many

ethos is built on a real sense of community. So you

plants on display, hanging in baskets, planted in

can wear that handcrafted piece of jewelry happy

large boxes—leaves and greenery in a place where

in the knowledge that it has come from not just an

people are working with hard stones and metals

individual, but a team. ¢

all day long. Anna tells me this is not just about

northcity4.com

aesthetics, “because of what we do, there are a lot of elements that are quite toxic. As well as looking nice, these plants could potentially be helping our health.” Ex-resident artist Inari Kiuru set up the ‘Indoor Forest’ as an air purifying experiment.

The sustainable, permanent green installation at Northcity4 is a living work of art based on NASA’s research on the air-cleansing qualities of houseplants. It’s created from locally grown plants and locally built vessels of sustainable materials.

MELBOURNE

WHY WE CREATE

Seeing the Unseen: Creating Space for Diversity in Stockholm’s Art Scene A country famed for its quality of life and inclusive way of living, yet something is out of balance in Sweden's capital.

We speak to Ashik Zaman of C-Print about the troublesome lack of diversity in Stockholm’s art galleries.

Words by KAYLA HOLDERBEIN Pictures by DANIELA ROSSI

Market Art Fair is Stockholm’s largest annual art

Ashik Zaman, Editor-in-chief of C-Print and

fair. Held every spring over three days, it draws

Coordinator of the Talks series at the Market Art

thousands of visitors and potential buyers to

Fair, has been a key figure in opening this dialogue

Sweden’s capital. After years of being housed

in Stockholm. This year’s Talks featured a panel

in various spaces around the city, the 2018 fair

discussion on Diversity Matters and Inclusion in

returned to its original home of Liljevalchs

the Art Sphere, where several artists, gallerists, and

Konsthall.

curators were invited to share their thoughts on the subject. I spoke with Zaman about how improving

The high ceilings and ample white walls of

diversity and inclusion in the art community

Liljevalchs Konsthall are impressive. Something

creates a more vibrant and liveable city for all.

about the abundant open space is an expression

and lack of diversity is palpable: only 3.5% of the

During the Diversity Matters discussion, someone mentioned a coded language in the art world—a spoken or unspoken way of communicating about art in terms that are not accessible or relatable to a certain group of people. This can come out in the way art is written about or the environment in which art is shown (galleries, museums, etc.), and can create a barrier to access for some communities. What are your thoughts on this?

450 represented artists in Stockholm are people

I agree there is a coded language situation. I’ve

of color. However, this has not come without a

been a part of the art scene in Stockholm for

movement to surface these issues and create a

over ten years but I still remember the first time

dialogue around them.

I went to Andréhn-Schiptjenko—which is now

of wealth in itself—there’s room to breathe, for creative thoughts to wander. Yet within this open space and perceived ‘room for all,’ there exists an unspoken code: barriers to entry for both artists and art-lovers alike.

This feeling is not exclusive to Liljevalchs or Market Art Fair, but instead reflects a larger pattern in Stockholm’s art community. A separation of class

STOCKHOLM

“I believe art either resonates with you or it doesn’t, you shouldn’t have to explain to somebody else why. It’s a personal sense that you shouldn’t have to defend.”

WHY WE CREATE

my favorite gallery—I felt the need to prepare

local communities—they’ll do a lot of shows that

myself for the situation. It's strange to think now

look out to the world and will channel topics like

but I almost found the name itself intimidating.

immigration. Konsthall C is an institution that I

Koshik (Ashik’s brother and Editor for C-Print)

think has taken more responsibility than others,

and I didn’t feel we had the right background. Our

over the past two years their whole program has

parents are interested in art and there was a lot of

been about decolonizing the north.

creative activity going on at home, but we weren’t

intellectualize it. Whereas I believe art either

When we talk about why this is important, why diversity even matters in the art space— it seems to be quite a loaded subject in Stockholm. How do you make a case for that discussion?

resonates with you or it doesn’t, you shouldn’t

It’s true. There is segregation and we don’t

have to explain to somebody else why. It’s a

really talk about class. I think it comes back

personal sense that you shouldn’t have to defend.

to the socialist mindset, the idea that ‘we all

grounded in the contemporary scene.

There’s this idea that you can’t just perceive art emotionally or intuitively, instead you have to

must contribute for everybody to live well.’ The

This sense of elitism also extends to the way art is written about, do you think this adds another barrier for the diverse art community living in Stockholm?

perception we want to have is that we’re all part

The coded language used to write about art drives

discussion. It’s been too politically incorrect for so

me crazy—art writers and curators almost have too

long that we’re afraid of using certain terms and

much freedom. A text should be there to serve a

we’ve refrained from talking about class, about

purpose and if you don’t see any connection between

societal difference, about skin color.

of a ‘nice, open-minded society that takes care of its own.’ What obscures these conversations is that we don’t really have the tools to open the

that text and the art you’re seeing, that’s okay.

My general take is that art should always reflect Sadly, social background does play a part. Many

the trajectory of society in some sense. There has

communities started migrating to Sweden just

to be room for art that represents the ‘now’ but, at

30-40 years ago, so whatever language we’ve

the same time, you can’t expect these perspectives

used growing up will never be close to the coded

to come from nowhere. The people that have

language we see when writing about art. The

these artistic visions need to be given the space to

trouble is, using the excuse of social backgrounds

project them.

and immigrant mentalities places the responsibility on the communities that have no command of the

Art schools aren’t going into smaller, diverse

art industry. The art schools and galleries, that’s

communities and actively seeking students. The

where the real power lies in making change.

thing is, everyone is friendly and polite, and if you reach out to them and actively request their

Are there galleries or institutions who are making an effort to change?

participation, they would be accommodating.

Konsthall C, Tensta Konsthall, Botkyrka Konsthall,

And when everything is very coded, how are you supposed to feel like you have the language to reach out to somebody, or know where to reach out?

and Bonniers Konsthall are among the leading institutions. The thing about the suburban art institutions is that they are very rooted in the

STOCKHOLM

WHY WE CREATE

but their intentions were always questioned more

reflected to the same degree in art schools, but it’s probably more than 3.5%. What are your thoughts on that?

than others. If your name is Jens and you’re 35 with

It’s definitely over 10%. It’s still low, but definitely

the aspiration of being a curator, then there’s no

a stretch from 3.5%. I’ve actually spoken a lot on

questions asked. It will be assumed that art is a

the subject after a Facebook post of mine about the

part of your background somehow. If your name is

lack of diversity in Stockholm’s galleries received

Ashik, the question will rise—it might not be said

some attention. The post became a platform for

out loud, but the thought will be there—“Where

conversation—a few gallerists were giving input,

did this interest come from?”

and people shared and liked it. But I realized that

I know friends who went to art schools after always having an interest and talent in the subject,

the gallerists were pretty shocked by it, which says so Even if you don’t do identity-based art in art

much about the lack of responsibility and reflection.

school, there is a perception that you might.

It’s not judged without this bias of you having

The art world has this perception of being very

a difference. And if you did want to do art that

open-minded, but it’s a bubble that needs to be

really was identity-based, I have heard of cases

burst. If diverse representation only makes up

where people found it too political or provocative.

3.5% of galleries, then the art scene really isn’t

It shouldn’t have to be that way. I feel just by being

open-minded at all. It’s time for galleries to reflect

there with my physical body in the art sphere, that

on their position and start asking themselves,

it sets a precedent.

“What are we collectively doing here and how can we make sure there’s space for everyone?” ¢

What responsibility does the art scene have to open this up?

c-print.se

All artistic communities together have to take responsibility. We have to confront our own biases, our own stereotypes and clichéd images.

Luckily art is a good platform for that.

If diverse artists are to be written into art history, they will have to be represented by galleries and given space to show their work. Otherwise art history continues to be non-reflective of society.

I scanned the 19 galleries that make up the more traditional art spaces in Stockholm and it doesn’t really matter how generous you are toward what counts as diverse, you will end up at about 3.5%.

Out of 450 represented artists—the total number was like 14 (who came from a non-Swedish background). It’s very, very low.

When we look at the wider community, you have now 30% of Stockholm that doesn’t have a Swedish background. That isn’t STOCKHOLM

CHAPTER 4

How We Progress How do our cities progress over time? What projects advance the livability of our cities, both culturally and sustainably?

Let’s explore the exciting epicentres of change that are making a very real transition to an improved way of living.

COPENHAGEN

The City Aquatic HONG KONG

We too, live here: Third Culture Kids in Hong Kong MANCHESTER

Peas And Quiet In The City

HOW WE PROGRESS

The City Aquatic Severe rainfall in 2010 and 2011 in Copenhagen, Denmark raised awareness of climate change on a political level, triggering the conception of a plan with 300 solutions to implement by 2035. Climate adaptation is increasingly being considered as an opportunity to make Copenhagen a better place to live with propositions from a number of parties. Although circumstances and traditional work processes make the situation arduous, these initiatives create platforms for collaborations between the municipality, private companies and the citizens.

Words & Pictures by CHARLOTTE SABOURET

December, 2009, Denmark hosts the 15th United

the water utility company (HOFOR) and private

Nations Climate Change Conference. Its capital

engineering companies began paving the way

city, Copenhagen, is full of international delegates

toward resilient systems.

gathered to discuss an agreement to tackle climate change. At this stage, Copenhagen is already

Double-value and community involvement

known for its sustainable development approach

In 2012, the city climate adaptation strategy

and the plan to reach carbon neutrality by 2025

integrated the Cloudburst Management Plan in its

is already underway. However, the city has not

core. This plan was conceived as a risk assessment

yet launched a master plan to cope with climate

tool to make estimations and decisions on the

change. It wasn’t until two periods of extreme

required level of security against flooding. Three

rainfall in 2010 and 2011 that awareness grew on

hundred projects were identified and detailed in

a political level in the city.

the plan which could be fully functioning by 2035.

The strategy Copenhagen Agenda 21 was created

On the 2nd of July 2011, the area surrounding

by the Copenhagen municipality in the wake

Copenhagen experienced the worst cloudburst

of the first agenda of its kind, which has been

in 400 years. More than 150mm of rain fell in

authored by the UN after the 1992 Earth Summit—

two hours, causing extensive flooding and costly

and presents a framework for involving multiple

damages. Meteorologists began to dig into the

city stakeholders in coping with environmental

data which produced troublesome predictions for

and climatic challenges.

the future, including an increase in precipitation, severe high winds and rising sea levels. Extreme

According to this agenda, until 2019 the

rainfall presents enormous challenges which

sustainable development of the city will follow

vary from area to area and cannot be solved by a

principles

single initiative such as improving the sewerage

co-­ creative

system. From that moment, the municipality,

partner­ships using a holistic and interdisciplinary

COPENHAGEN

related

to

“citizen

communities

and

participation, private/public

HOW WE PROGRESS

approach,”1 the same perspective as the inha­bi­

tation plan by involving the road owners who are

tants’ involvement, a ‘double-purpose’ approach

responsible for the cost of road maintenance. To

is announced by the municipality to tackle climate

accomplish such efforts, the municipality has set

change and economic and safety issues. In

up a partnership with private companies to enroll

addition to increasing the storm-water drainage

private road owners to create an application for

capacity, the different technical solutions are also

a co-financing scheme. Residents with private

designed to create recreational areas which help

courtyards have already had the opportunity in

cool the city, enhance biodiversity and result in

the past to apply for economic support for reno­

increased livability, with more parks and other

vating their spaces. However, the climate change

green areas. This indicates a shift from perceiving

context and the related downpours causing floods

storm-water as a damaging element that needs to

in basements have made the situation much more

be removed from the ground surface, to a resource.

complex. A task force and online portal have been created to inform and guide citizens in adapting

Private roads, courtyards and streets as collaborative areas

their properties for climate change. This illus­

Private roads owned by citizens (such as those

company (HOFOR) are beginning to consider

which lead into residential blocks) have been

private road owners as genuine partners.

trates that the municipality and the water utility

identified as an opportunity by the climate adap­ 1

Palomino, J., (2017), Co-Design and Citizen Participation Processes in the Climate Change Adaptation Projects of Copenhagen, (Master’s thesis)

COPENHAGEN

HOW WE PROGRESS

In many in buildings in Copenhagen, apartments

the research project “The Gold—Value Creation

overlook a courtyard, often a green and spacious

in Climate Adaptation” carried out by the

area. Gated from the footpath and shared only

Department of Planning of the University of

with other tenants and adjacent buildings, the

Aalborg, researchers are looking into how

courtyards often feature child’s play equipment,

architecture and urban infrastructure can play

benches, chairs and barbeques set amid gardens,

an important role in improving the mental

lawns and trees. The maintenance and renewal

health, physical activity, and social interaction of

costs for these private green spaces are paid for

residents within their neighborhood.

by the owners. Thus, interest has also grown amongst the municipality and the facility

Experimentations with civic participation

com­pany HOFOR to integrate public and private

An

courtyard spaces into the cloudburst masterplan.

participation is the ‘climate resilient block,’ which

Indeed, courtyards such as in schoolyards,

is part of the a climate resilient neighborhood

institutions, large car parks, or gardens and

located in the East of Copenhagen (Klimakvarter).

residual areas, are spaces in the city that can

Since 2013, Klimakvarter has created an open

contribute to the city’s climate adaptation

framework where the municipality, residents of

breathing new life into the area.

the neighborhood, external consultants in urban

emblematic

project

with

high

citizen

planning and other organizations have been Climate adaptation can also provide a solution

helping to develop future solutions for the block

for certain health issues. For example, within

and courtyard renewal. This has taken place

COPENHAGEN

HOW WE PROGRESS

through interviews, questionnaires for citizens,

contributed with designing new learning spaces

planting events, friendly meals for residents of the

and schoolyards together with students in the area.

neighborhood, meetings and a committee room open to the public to answer questions and discuss

Many other cities in Denmark have participated

the project. However, if the project has been

in climate change adaptation. Gladsaxe is

introduced as the pinnacle for civic participation

located near Copenhagen, and citizen budgets

within the climate adaptation plan, no standard

have been explored by the municipality. Citizens

formula has been conceived to create a shared

can get 125.000 Dkr. to develop a climate project

strategy and allocate budgets to start replicating

in their area. This has proven to be a successful

these sorts of participatory tools all over the city.

system as the citizens claimed ownership of their projects and developed a new knowledge about

Another recent urban renewal project has also

climate adaptation.

placed the civic participatory approach at the forefront of its development process. The project

Platforms for innovation

is called “The Soul of Nørrebro” and will lie in

Beyond the dream world sold through 3D renders

the heart of this popular Northern district of

published

Copenhagen. The architectural team has designed

companies, feasibility has not been entirely

a plan with blank spaces open in the design, for

solved in various urban renewal projects.

citizens, schools and local businesses to create

Kayaking, children splashing around ponds, urban

future content and function. For example, Arki_lab,

agriculture… all the lifestyle activities that can

an urban design firm that aims to design cities

easily be put forward when browsing architectural

with people through participatory processes,

projects. However, polluted water is still an issue

by

architecture

and

engineering

HOW WE PROGRESS

and may cause complications for the municipality.

methods to document and visualize the benefits

In that respect, The rain, a new Danish Netflix

and potential of climate adaptation.”

show, may be seen as a nod to the climate change issues faced by Scandinavian countries. In this

Although a traditional top-down approach is still

post-apocalyptic show, the story is set after a

significant, innovative forms of co-creation have

devastating biological catastrophe caused by a

been introduced by politicians, administration,

virus transmitted through the rain, wiping out

the private sector and the civic society which could

most of humanity.

be considered the essence of the Nordic model of sustainable development. The lesson we can

Nevertheless, all of these projects offer an

learn from Copenhagen is that climate adaptation

exciting opportunity for progress. For Signe

work must not only focus on minimizing the risks

Boelsmand, research assistant in the Department

but also take advantage of the adaptation efforts

of Planning at the University of Aalborg, “If

to improve quality of life of our cities’. With

climate adaptation should be an accelerator for

flexible and participatory solutions, where water

changing the way, our roads and public places

and heat management works alongside urban

look like we need to invite and collaborate with

planning and development of recreational areas,

people whom are experts in the new values that

Copenhagen keeps its leading position in this

we want to promote. This could for example be

global effort, and is already exporting its best

healthcare workers, schools, the department

practices to other big cities. ¢

of sport and leisure, citizens, interest groups etc. This calls for new ways and tools to qualify collaborations between different actors - and new

HOW WE MOVE

We too, live here: Third Culture Kids in Hong Kong Look inside any city across the globe and you’ll come across a swell of ‘third culture kids.’ Raised in a culture that differs from their birthplace and heritage, these global nomads have a unique experience of the world around them. And in Hong Kong it’s no different. We spoke to a selection of the city’s third culture kids about coming-of-age in a place that outgrows its people.

Words by LESLEY CHEUNG Pictures by BERTHA WANG

HONG KONG

Wai, Hong Kong / United Kingdom Grew up in the United Kingdom and visited Hong Kong once every three years when she was little. She now lives in Tai Po, the New Territories, on her own while her Hong Kong-born parents are in the United Kingdom.

1 1. MJ, Hong Kong / the Philippines Born and raised in Hong Kong with parents from the Philippines who came to Hong Kong for work.

They returned to the Philippines a decade ago.

2

2. Tara, Hong Kong / France / Singapore / United Kingdom Born in a little town in Southern France and moved to Hong Kong at age 9. She studied high school in Singapore and university in the United Kingdom. Parents live in Hong Kong.

HOW WE PROGRESS

“MJ also feels stigmatized because of the large population of Southeast Asian (mainly Filipino) domestic helpers in Hong Kong, which she is often associated with. A former employer even asked her to introduce herself to clients as Latin American.”

Since the middle of the 20th century, increasing

ding to American sociologist and anthro­polo­gist

numbers of people have been flowing in and out

Ruth Useem, third culture kids are those raised in

of Hong Kong. The city has become a refuge for

a culture different from that of their parents and

southbound Chinese fleeing from political unrest

their birthplace. What do these third culture kids

and a symbol of prosperity for businessmen on the

make of Hong Kong? As a generation of mobility,

cusp of Hong Kong’s economic boom. What these

how do they place themselves in both the culture

new settlers have in common, at least when they

they have grown up in and that of their parents?

arrived, was that Hong Kong was their place “until”

In the context of Hong Kong, third culture kids

—until they could return home to reunite with their

are usually the result of their parents’ privilege,

families, until they earned enough money or until

often born into upper-middle class families with

they found a better place to earn more. There was

the financial and social capital to travel around—

always an expiry date on their stay.

whether they are expatriates relocating to Hong Kong or locals leaving.

After Beijing’s crackdown on democratic and student protesters in June 1989, eight years ahead

This, alongside Hong Kong’s established history

of the handover of Hong Kong’s sovereignty

as an entrepot, means that children are exposed

to China in 1997, that expiry date suddenly

to multicultural influences from a young age and

drew nearer and waves of Hong Kong residents

often find it difficult to identify with a fixed idea

suddenly had a decision to make.

of place.

Hong Kong as the third culture

The city as a newfound wonder

Over 20 years have passed since these people,

As the world gets more globalized and intercon­

either stopping by or residing in Hong Kong,

nec­ted, going overseas is much easier for young

made the choice to settle in or flee the city they

people, as well as for third culture kids who have

called home.

now come of age. Wai, who grew up in the United Kingdom and only visited Hong Kong a few times

During this time, Hong Kong continued to see

in her childhood, is one of the adventurous souls

an influx of multicultural influences resulting in

who “wants to experience living and working in

growing numbers of ‘third culture kids.’ Accor­

a different country while she’s still young.” She

HONG KONG

HOW WE PROGRESS

“Children are exposed to multicultural influences from a young age and often find it difficult to identify with a fixed idea of place.” is very open about her possibilities here in Hong

he speaks, that is. He speaks native English and a

Kong, explaining, “I’ll at least give it a month to

little Cantonese (reluctantly), but he doesn’t feel

settle in, then after that I’ll see how it goes.”

discriminated against, especially since his social circle is mostly other expatriates.

Wai could have lived anywhere, but Hong Kong was convenient. “It’s easy for me to settle here

Hong Kong to him is a workplace. “Every year I

because of my family. Moving to a completely new

review whether to stay in Hong Kong for another 12

country for me is a big jump.” Is Hong Kong a big

months,” Alex explains. He takes into account his

jump, too? She hesitates, “It’s always been half-

work, the lifestyle of the place and the opportunity

half, I’ve always been living in-between cultures.”

for travel. “Going anywhere from Australia takes

While she is here in Hong Kong, she takes the

longer than from Hong Kong.” Over the years the

time to look up local history and discover unusual

biggest struggle of staying or leaving was when he

places, unlike how she used to visit relatives on a

broke up with his girlfriend. Eventually he chose to

tight schedule. To date, Wai has been to the Big

stay, knowing Hong Kong could offer more stability

Buddha and Kat Hing Wai (a walled village in

while working on his PhD studies back in Australia.

Yuen Long, the New Territories). “Kat Hing Wai is just walls now, but it’s over 800 years old—this is

Infinitely close and yet to arrive

the stuff I want to discover.” And there’s certainly

While Wai and Alex are reconciling their distance

no lack of interesting places for her to see.

from Hong Kong, others whose parents are from abroad often find themselves stigmatized

There are also some who consider their stay in

or estranged by locals. This can get particularly

Hong Kong more thoughtfully, such as Alex.

problematic for Southeast Asians, a majority of

Having grown up in Australia, he encountered

whom live in Hong Kong for work or family reasons.

Hong Kong indirectly because of two women: his

MJ, a native Hongkonger with parents from the

mother who originates from Hong Kong and took

Philippines, really feels this clash in cultural identity.

him back on family trips when he was young, and

MJ navigates Hong Kong as a local. “The shop

his ex-girlfriend who got a job in Hong Kong in

owners in the wet market and the Wellcome

2012, so he moved there with her. It’s been five

[local supermarket] cashiers know me,” she

years now and Alex works as a physiotherapist at

beams, happy to have immersed herself in her

a studio run by Australians, but he doesn’t take the

neighborhood. While she mingles well with

city for granted.

locals, people see her as a foreigner due to her appearance. Plus, language can be a barrier

Alex identifies as Australian, though he feels his

when the locals use Cantonese slang that she is

Asian appearance makes him blend in well—until

unfamiliar with. MJ also feels stigmatized because

HONG KONG

HOW WE PROGRESS

of the large population of Southeast Asian (mainly

confusing as I tried to understand two different

Filipino) domestic helpers in Hong Kong, which

cultures and how I fit into them. I feel somewhat

she is often associated with. A former employer

alienated, especially when I am with a group of

even asked her to introduce herself to clients as

Hong Kong natives, or a group of Filipinos.”

Latin American.

At home in a cultural swirl The Philippines to MJ is like a distant relative.

While cultural identity for third culture kids is in

She travels there once a year to see her family

flux and evades clean definition, home is to be

and celebrates their traditions alongside those

found on unsettled ground. Born in France and

of Hong Kong. Speaking of the 2010 incident in

raised in Hong Kong, Tara is comfortable living in

Manila—where Hong Kong tourists were held

this city and identifies as a Hongkonger, despite

hostage, some fatally—MJ was deeply saddened.

having grown up in a mix of cultures and not

“Growing up and discovering my identity was

speaking Cantonese.

Tara studied at the French International School where her peers were mostly French expats from mixed backgrounds. The experience of studying abroad has made her sensitive to how she understands her own identity. She visits France at least once a year, but doesn’t feel very connected to the country. She believes how one identifies with a place is more about culture and social interaction, and sees herself blending in Hong Kong as the city itself is also hybrid. “Hong Kong is forever changing. I don’t think anyone knows the city completely, most people only know part of it well.”

Third culture, home culture?

Wai, Alex, MJ, and Tara offer a glimpse into the distinct experiences of third culture kids living in Hong Kong. While Hong Kong prides itself on being cosmopolitan, communities still tend to be largely segregated along linguistic lines.

The overwhelming majority of Cantonesespeaking locals seldom achieve the same depth of communication with the significant minority of English-speaking, multicultural individuals.

Nevertheless, third culture kids have adapted to Alex, Hong Kong / Australia / Chinese mainland Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia to a mother from Hong Kong and father from Chinese mainland. His family now lives in Australia.

Hong Kong in their own way. Day by day, they build their lives here around patterns and habits, continuing to evaluate both themselves and the city they call home. Well, at least for now. ¢

HONG KONG

HOW WE PROGRESS

Peas And Quiet In The City Manchester has set its sights on being one of Europe’s greenest cities and a great starting place is urban gardening, the practice of using limited urban space for cultivating food and plants. Great steps have been taken but there is still work to do...

Words & Pictures by CRAIG A. TAYLOR

MANCHESTER

HOW WE PROGRESS

It’s long been accepted that far from being an

west side of Manhattan. The 5 million people who

insult, ‘you need to get out more,’ is actually pretty

have walked the pathway could be forgiven for

sound advice.

thinking they were in rural Connecticut rather than in the centre of one of the most congested

In his 1854 essay Walden: Or, Life in the Woods, Henry

urban areas on the planet.

David Thoreau’s classic prescription for civilization and its woes was ‘the tonic of the wilderness,’ a

Europe is leading too. Amsterdam already has

reference to nature’s calming and health boosting

188 registered city gardens and the city’s Rooftop

effects. The Japanese also have a word for this; they

Revolution project, turning unused rooftop spaces

call it shinrin-yoku or ‘forest bathing.’

into productive gardens, is a fantastic concept.

Freidburg, Germany’s self-styled ‘greenest city’

Many of us have found that connecting with nature

boasts the Gartencoop, an impressive urban

in green urban spaces benefits both our mental

agricultural co-op collective with over 300 organic

and physical wellbeing and now we have scientific

vegetable gardeners.

proof. The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ ) scores reported that “people living in greener

So, what about Manchester?

areas experienced significantly lower levels

Manchester is surrounded by four National Parks,

of mental distress.” In a major publication in

yet the city centre is notoriously bereft of green

September 2014, Public Health England said

space, with many residents having only a small

“there is significant and growing evidence of

balcony to convert to usable green space.

the physical and mental health benefits of green In March the Mayor of Manchester, Andy

spaces.” They went on to add:

Burnham, held a major conference called Greater “So, we know we need green space, but, what if

Manchester Green Summit, with the intention

you live, work and socialise in an urban area with

of making Manchester one of Europe’s ‘greenest

little or no access to green space? Finding both the

cities.’ That’s a bold statement of intent.

time and the place to connect with nature can be tough, and in a city like Manchester it can seem

There has been some success in recent years

almost impossible.”

in ‘greening up’ the city centre. Dig the City in Manchester in 2013 introduced street gardens,

Urban gardening, the practice of using small,

flower displays, stalls and colonies of bees into

urban spaces to grow plants, flowers and even

the city centre, stating “Organisers hope to inspire

food is becoming more and more popular. It is

more residents to create gardens in whatever space

also about developing green community spaces

they have.” Sadly, Dig the City hasn’t continued.

where people can connect with each other, which is equally important.

However, smaller more local projects may come out on top. There are a number of

Many cities have acknowledged the need for

successful community-based projects running

urban gardening and access to green spaces. In

in Manchester, all with the intention of creating

2014, an urban garden was created in New York

green space that can used to grow plants and food.

above street level; the New York Highline Park.

South Manchester is heavily populated, but there

It was created on a former New York Central

are numerous enterprises going strong.

Railroad raised platform which runs down the

MANCHESTER

HOW WE PROGRESS

The Green South

own use. In Salford there are Incredible Edible

In the centre of Chorlton, one of Manchester’s

shops and managed allotments where local

most densely populated areas, is Chorlton

residents are assisted in starting urban gardens

Nursery, a small garden centre which actively

and growing and selling their produce, for both

promotes growing food as well as more traditional

personal and commercial use.

flowers and plants.

All of these organisations are advocating selfThe centre has been run by the same passionate

grown food and encourage Manchester’s citizens

team of urban gardeners for the last 28 years. They

to get together, work together and grow together.

explain that a number of their vegetables, all of

We know urban gardening has many benefits, so

which are ideal for small spaces, can be bought to

what can be done to encourage more?

grow easily at home, including courgettes, beans, tomatoes and pumpkins.

The need for green space has to be part of the local planning process and national planning strategy

Less than a mile from Chorlton Nursery is another

and green space needs to be protected from

community project, Scott Avenue Allotments.

development.

In addition to private allotments, it features the, Grow For It! project. The Grow For It! project,

It’s not impossible. If you look at what Milan has

funded by the Council and Metrolink, allows

achieved with the Bosco Verticale, 137 species of

locals to use the space for gardening and features

tree and plant seamlessly interwoven with steel

an apiary. There is also a shop selling the honey

and concrete, we know we can build modern

and other produce grown on site, the profits of

places to live and feel connected to nature. It

which go back into the garden.

does, however, need the will and the application of planners, councils and developers and direct

Nearby in Hulme, there is a successful and popular

action by local residents.

urban gardening project, the Hulme Community Garden. Located in the middle of a concrete jungle

In Manchester, there is currently a battle raging

of flats and tower blocks, the garden features a

to protect a large green space at Turn Moss

tea shop, a garden centre, a cafe, walkways and

from development. Local residents are directly

‘wildflower areas,’ which are areas given over to

challenging the Council and developers, and the

local flowers and bees with little or no human

media is watching with interest. The outcome

intervention. The centre also runs regular meetings

will go a long way towards signalling the intent

on how to grow food at home. It is great to see so

of Manchester City Council going forward, and

many children getting dirty and showing a genuine

how serious it is about being one of Europe’s

interest in growing their own food.

greenest cities.

Three areas of Manchester and Salford have

Will Manchester really embrace the need we have

joined 70 other groups in the nationwide project,

for green space? Time will tell... ¢

Incredible Edible, which encourages communities and schools to grow simple herbs and vegetables in urban areas. Wooden raised beds are set up in shopping centres and railway stations and the public is encouraged to harvest produce for their

MANCHESTER

Founding Friends

We all need friends in life to progress and grow.

Therefore we have teamed up with like-minded and inspiring brands that support our collective intention.

We’re continuously looking for partners with a purpose, who have ‘people’ at their core and like to make an impact in cities.

We feel both lucky and humbled to have these great founding friends part of this journal.

Thank you!

FOUNDING FRIENDS HOOFDSTUK

This is Antwerp This is Antwerp is an urban magazine on Antwerp’s

of Antwerp’s creative scene. Which results in This

creative scene, published by the city of Antwerp,

is Antwerp being at the heart of that creative scene.

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are its keywords. To provide you with the most up

national and international creatives. This makes

to date information, This is Antwerp works with a

This is Antwerp an international community of

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culture lives and breathes, and any moment can

promote our vision of clean and accessible cities​.​​​

change the course of your life—all of which rely

With the unu Scooter, moving through your city is

on how well we move from one experience to the

a choice, and not a chore.

next. Why spend it waiting for public transport?

STADSNAAM unumotors.com

Reaching New Heights

Amsterdam | 135m Rembrandt Toren

Chicago | 527m Willis Tower

Copenhagen | 106m Christiansborg Palace

Melbourne | 297m The Eureka Tower

#acitymadebypeople

Minneapolis | 241m IDS Center

Hong Kong | 484m International Commerce Centre

Stockholm | 83m Vancouver | 201m Sรถder Torn Living Shangri-La

Creativity x Livability How can we creatively tackle urban issues in our cities? How can citizens be more involved in making their city better?

Nadine van der Wielen, Snap Me Pretty

Music x Freedom

Photography x Mental Health

Hamzah Kashash Hamzah Kashash

Photography x Mental Health

Evolving from the A City Made By People network,

of inspiring in-conversations with artists and

Made By People Lab launched in 2018 to explore

performances, sharing vulnerability and how

how creativity can positively impact livability in

empowering music can be.

our cities. We facilitate the connection between City, brands and citizens through creative

Although we started with creating these unique

experiences to deliver social impact and develop

creative experiences in Amsterdam, we intend to

deeper connections with communities.

expand these activities to all our cities within the network.

Through our framework of Creativity x Livability we pair creative elements with urban issues to

Do you want to be involved as a citizen or partner

bring new perspectives and collaboratively work

in making these experiences a reality? We would

towards new solutions. Over the last months

love to hear from you.

we’ve launched a few of these experiences: Let’s creatively tackle urban issues and work on

Food x Loneliness

livability together!

Isolation and loneliness is an issue for most cities, despite their populations increasing. Whether it’s newcomers arriving into the city or the elderly feeling detached from the City they have always called home, there are a range of contributing factors to loneliness.

We hosted a ‘buddy-dinner’: this buy-one-giveone initiative brought members of the community to eat together and meet new people to break the loneliness cycle.

Photography x Mental Health Mental health is a silent killer across developed societies. Breaking the taboo and talking about it and how to deal with it can only help citizens. We briefed 10 local photographers to explore the topic and bring it out of the darkness through their work.

As a result: we exhibited the works over 4 days with all profits from sales being donated to a local mental health foundation.

Music x Freedom Music gives us the freedom to speak up and share, but also empowers us in what we want to achieve in life, to create and grasp new and exciting opportunities. We joined for an evening

madebypeoplelab.com @madebypeoplelab

Patricia Cabeza

Correspondents & Photographers in this Issue MADRID Words by VERÓNICA MARTÍN & LETICIA BARBEITO Pictures by PATRICIA CABEZA Local Talent Words & Pictures by MARTA AGUILAR VANCOUVER Words by MELISSA GAGNÉ Pictures by OLIVIA SARI-GOERLACH PARIS Words & Illustrations by SONJA BAJIC CHICAGO Words by TOULY PHIACHANTHARATH & IVY TAC Pictures by IVY TAC MINNEAPOLIS Words by WAQAR AHMAD & RITA FARMER Pictures by RITA FARMER TOKYO Words by MANA WILSON Pictures by TAIGA KATO LONDON Words & Pictures by STEPHANIE ADAMS SEATTLE Words by LINDSEY POTTER Pictures by SAM GEHRKE AMSTERDAM Words by ASHANYA INDRALINGAM Pictures by RICHARD RIGBY Local Talent Words by ROBIN COX Pictures by KEVIN RIJNDERS BUCHAREST Words by DIANA BOGDAN Pictures by ONE NIGHT GALLERY Local Talent Words by ADRIANA SPULBER Pictures by TIBERIUS HODOROABĂ MELBOURNE Words by NETTA JUSTICE Pictures by SARAH CAUST STOCKHOLM Words by KAYLA HOLDERBEIN Pictures by DANIELA ROSSI COPENHAGEN Words & Pictures by CHARLOTTE SABOURET HONG KONG Words by LESLEY CHEUNG Pictures by BERTHA WANG Local Talent Words by LESLEY CHEUNG Pictures by BERTHA WANG MANCHESTER Words & Pictures by CRAIG A. TAYLOR

Does your city want to be part of the #acitymadebypeople network?

Can’t get enough of proclaiming your love for your city?

Are you always discovering new trends and meeting people with inspiring stories to tell? And does your city have progress just waiting to be shared?

A City Made by People might be right up your alley.

We are always looking for energetic correspondents and city captains all over the world. Without our dedicated global teams, A City Made by People wouldn’t be where it is today. Get in touch and let’s start the conversation on how you can be involved. acitymadebypeople.com @acitymadebypeople

We support and celebrate citizens who make our cities more livable