Hand holding a camera lens showing an upside-down reflection of a person in a green shirt taking a photo in front of a wall covered with stickers and graffiti.

A City of Stories

Exploration

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Concept

A City of Stories: Residency at Greylight Projects

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In the past few weeks, I had the incredible opportunity to undertake a residency at Greylight Projects for Atelier in the City. It all started with an idea to create a map of the city of Heerlen, filled with stories from its residents. During my initial meeting at Greylight Projects, I shared my plan with great enthusiasm and made it clear that I would pursue the project whether or not I secured the space. A few weeks later, I received the exciting news that I got the spot, and I eagerly began preparing for the opening of the space, in collaboration with the NS and the Mayor of Heerlen.

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The opening event was fantastic (see some photos below), but it was only the beginning. At that point, I had completed just five interviews. Two months later, I had successfully conducted 20 interviews with amazing people who truly represent the city, accompanied by two Walk & Talks and a soundscape. As my final presentation approached, I realized that this project was too significant to rush. Therefore, I decided that while it marked the end of my residency, it was only the true beginning of the project.

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Now, I continue to gather input—interviews, drawings, and photos—aiming to draw the map after this summer. "A City of Stories" will become a map created by and for the people of Heerlen, showcasing their pride and what Heerlen stands for.

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Two people in a room with a black wall featuring a chalk map, one gesturing while speaking and the other listening with a drink in hand.

A group of people standing in an art gallery or exhibit room with a table displaying papers and artwork in the center under overhead lighting.

Man adjusting a large wall display titled 'The stories' featuring portraits and text, with a ladder, table with audio equipment, and colorful poster nearby.

Four men standing side by side in front of a collage-covered wall, three are smiling; one holds a paintbrush.

People socializing and observing artworks in a dimly lit exhibition space with posters on black walls.

Interior hallway with large arched window, vending machine, two vertical flags reading 'EXPOSITIE' and '#OPEN:>', and a doorway with partially visible people inside.