type
Public participation
Context
This 110-unit housing complex (home to 194 residents), managed by the Foyer du Sud social housing company (SISP), is located at Square Charles Jordens in Saint-Gilles, in the Bosnie neighborhood, near the Midi train station and Place Bethléem. While this densely populated, working-class residential area boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, it also faces significant challenges regarding traffic and drug use. The project is part of the SLRB’s "101e %" program, which aims to improve the living environment of select social housing complexes through the integration of contemporary artworks.
Mission
The SLRB aims to support the creation of an artwork at the Square Jordens site through a dialogue with local stakeholders and residents. Typically, this dialogue begins with the artist present; in this instance, however, the SLRB chose to work with residents beforehand to shape the artistic intervention and facilitate artistic engagement by providing tenants with direct exposure to contemporary art. The process activates the three dimensions of the "101%" initiative: artistic, social, and urban.
Approach
Engaging residents, who are often not frequently consulted, in the co-creation of an artwork through a participatory process, can be seen as an exemplary approach. To establish clear objectives, the process was structured into several stages. An initial assessment phase, based on local outreach sessions, helped build connections with residents and foster a shared understanding of the issues surrounding the Jordens Esplanade. An awareness-raising phase, featuring visits to the Wiels contemporary art center and artists' studios, as well as a ceramics workshop at the Maison des Arts de Schaerbeek, sparked creativity and provided the tools needed for the co-design workshops, where needs and aspirations were translated into artistic and technical concepts. A focus on greenery, landscaping, and how the space is used guided the selection process. Residents then took part in the final decision-making regarding the winning proposal before collaborating on the actual construction of the new esplanade alongside the selected team: Plant en Houtgoed and Flore Fockedey.