After the closure of Tacheles Arts Academy, ufa Fabrik remains an important ‘alternative arts’ space in Germany’s Berlin in Tempelhof. They describe it as a ‘cultural oasis’. It started life as a squat back in 1979 when the old Universal film studios were occupied. There are still a core of permanent residents and it is described as an eco-village. It hosts many diverse events and festivals.
This is the link to the official site.
Undercurrents have produced some world-renowned documentary films offering alternative news and countercultural views. Now based in Wales. The link site includes a potted history about their film-making. Their films include documentaries on eco-villages and the Mayan people.
Unfamous Resistenza
is a French blog site with all sort of nooks and crannies of ‘alternative’ stuff. Protest, counter-culture, street-art, or, as the site proclaims (quite loudly):
You are U.R.!
Link to their blog
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.
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.
Void-network from Athens…described by Wolfgang, as: “if you remix: militancy and dancefloor you get…maybe something like milidance :).”
Void Network : Viva La Anarquia – on YouTube, plus a link to the main blog site.
Arts squat right in the heartland of Amsterdam’s city centre. A creative hub for a diverse range of happenings, creators and a meeting place for many.
It offers opportunities for new ideas, new people and different types of creative endeavour - music, crafts, arts, events - to be shared with visitors and locals in busy Amsterdam.
Charlie Luxton’s programme for Channel 4 in the UK on twenty of the weirdest living spaces in the world. From a dumpster truck to space age, crazy eco-homes and high-tech ones too. Lots of creative ideas. Some 'high-end' art and low-cost innovation.
These 20 have been included in the fifty weirdest homes compiled on this hub site. Including the Hobbit House in Wales and the Toilet House in South Korea.
You have to register to view the Channel 4 programme.
Anglo-centric look at world hypocrisy!
Satire, humour and lots of commentary against racism, sexism and homophobia – especially in politics and governments.
Some great cartoons and photos...