We held our first residency Oct 10 – Dec 16, 2022.
No. 1 invited curious people of any discipline to pursue a burning project while exploring an authentic relationship with self, others, and common space. Fourteen residents (8 from Berlin, 6 from abroad) were offered 24/7 access to the space and an invitation to gather, work, play, produce, host events, and connect this experience of temporary community with their existing local and international communities.
No. 1 was, ultimately, an exploration of gathering, common space, and community. An exploration with a fundamental assertion: that in belonging, we can thrive as individuals, and in thriving, we can belong.
Some residents furthered and some finished their work. Some changed their path, some met collaborators. Some found encouragement to do their life’s work, and some discovered what that work was in the first place. Some experienced conflict, some fell in love. Some left the residency exhausted, and some energized. Everyone made new, deep friendships. And almost all considered it a transformative experience.
Here's a selection of quotes from residents, supplied in anonymous feedback forms in the final week of residency.
"It feels like I have just experienced one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I feel inspired to continue prioritising connections, people and community.
"It was a great mix of inspiring souls. I felt a strong energetic/intuitive click with most of the residents, and the diversity in practices and ways of expression (dancing, writing, etc.) felt enriching. The combination of being able to have both deep philosophical conversations and be playful and dance felt magical to me."
"I feel that I belong to the place. I felt responsible and challenged. At times frustrated and angry. Hopeful. Empowered and grateful towards the end."
"I am now ready to step into the world and share my work and my gifts."
