Welcome to

This Archive aims to map different areas in Rotterdam which feel hostile to us. We of course realise that things that feel hostile to us (a group of 6 white, able-bodied European art students of diverse gender identities, sexualities, and socio-economic situations) might not feel hostile to others. That we might not perceive certain elements of hostile architecture simply because we are not affected by them, or that places we feel are welcoming might even be hostile to others. This Archive, therefore, only reflects our particular point of view and does not aim to be an exhaustive list. The politics of that are simply impossible for us to unravel.

What we do want to create, however, is a discourse. We believe in the importance of creating an environment in which people of all identities can voice their opinions and are listened to, as to communally strive for a better future. This is why you can find a document here, to which you can add locations in Rotterdam that feel unwelcoming or welcoming. If you like, you can also explain why they affect you in such a manner. This document will never be able to reflect all opinions either, but it might be able to offer helpful reflections, nonetheless.

Because we hope to inspire in you the notion that positive change is possible, we also consciously decided to use this platform to showcase initiatives in Rotterdam (and outside of it) that aim to create better living environments.

ABOUT

“We envision futures where design is used to support care, healing, liberation, joy, and deep sustainability.

We dream of worlds in which design is truly led by the experiences and brilliance of those who are marginalized by interlocking systems of oppression. We also know that birthing dreams requires discomfort and moving beyond good intentions.” – Design Justice Network