Life Cipher: update
At the beginning of this summer, the Life Cipher project began, a collaboration between SCHUNCK Museum and the Kool Cult foundation.
Eight young people from Heerlen, each with their own creative talent, are receiving assistance in developing their artistic enterprises through this twelve-month program. Now that the first four months are over, it's time to take stock.
Experts by Experience
The program includes coaching sessions and meet-ups with inspiring (experience) experts, such as fashion designer Naud Verboeket and rapper and educator Alvin Schepers, also known as Dookie. Gert-Jan van Stiphout (Kool Cult) states, “In the past months, during several sessions, we have gathered the wishes of the participants and especially challenged them to think in innovative ways. Engaging discussions have emerged, for example, about the difference in positioning between a breaker and an MC, how a videographer can develop, and much more. We really see that the participants are learning to look at their art form differently. The discussions foster self-reflection and the development of their own creative work.”
Seeking Collaboration
Jop Vermeesch (Kool Cult) adds, “Due to the buzz surrounding this project, we see that a new generation of creators — young kids — are ready to sign up for the next edition. We hope to further develop this project into something structural.” While the focus has been on the artistic side so far, there are upcoming sessions planned that will look into business development and entrepreneurship. “For example, organizing an event, possibly inspired by Andy Warhol. But also translating that into a concrete product or project. It’s not so much about commerce, but more about getting something off the ground. We aim to teach them the importance of connection, for instance, by seeking collaboration with other parties in the city,” says Gert-Jan.
To be continued, then.