This is a real ‘web’, just like a spider’s – a place of connections – ideas – information – of dreams!
Our aim is to make it a Web of Hubs for alternative and free cultural spaces and people
The idea is to provide a loose-knit, non-hierarchical, web-based resource network for a wide range of what we are calling ‘Free Cultural Spaces’ (FCS). They wouldn’t necessarily use that term to describe themselves, but we need a simple, non-threatening term!
Dutch, Amsterdam-based innovative housing organisation. Their site says: “Urban Resort realizes inexpensive space for the cultural, social and creative sector by transforming vacant property in lively (living) work spaces with a public function and a cultural influence. All buildings play an active role in the neighborhood or city. By reusing buildings and encouraging self Urban Resort can create affordable places.”
To celebrate the publication of Thomas More’s ‘Utopia’ 500 years ago, lots of international events – festivals, conferences, music and arts are planned.
Here are two links.
A fairly academic multi-disciplinary, non-membership group, who meet in different European locations to discuss Utopian history(ies) and ideas. This is there web contact location.
In 1997 in the country of Lithuania, the residents of the area declared the Republic of Užupis, along with its own flag, currency, president, cabinet of ministers, a constitution written by Romas Lileikis and Thomas Chepaitis, an anthem, and an army (numbering approximately 11 men). They celebrate this independence annually on Užupis Day, which falls on April 1st. Perhaps the date is not a coincidence? A place for artists and dreamers.
The Ferry House is located in the Netherlands. It’s linked Foundation says it is about creating a new Economy, based on ‘sharing the Earth’. They say that:
“You are curious about the idea of sharing the entire Earth with each other and treating her nicely as a heritage. For example, you have to pay more and more for a piece of land that makes healthy living together increasingly impossible. You wish it were different.
Follow our Veerhuis campaign to give away land and how that creates the conditions for a new economy and society.”
Versionist Net is a reggae site including radio net-casts.
Born in Montreal, Canada – brainchild of Shane Smith and Suroosh Alvi. VICE started life as an edgy counter-cultural magazine and has ended up a behemoth of a web and video presence. Controversial and unpredictable content. Much that is non-PC. But quite a lot of ‘alternative’ reportage of world events. But backed by corporate leaders and money. Now challenging CNN! Handle with care…
A mystical valley and village in Ecuador. A ‘lost paradise’ or ‘paradise lost’, depending upon who you listen to. Home supposedly of some of the oldest inhabitants on Earth and the San Pedro Mushrooms. Much visited including by many would be shamen and women. But because of too many tourists, rapes and other problems, it has its downsides, as well as stunning scenery and some very committed eco-villagers, organic farmers and eco-tourism.
Links to ‘International Living’ article about properties and living in the area, and to a video about Shambalabamba Community.
A vibrant arts community in the heart of Senegal. This is a link to their facebook page and a video link.
Lots of good images of artists using recycled materials, including Rolando Politi. And lots of buildings and living spaces made from waste and recycled materials. A good fun site.