Thijs Lijster (1981) is a cultural philosopher and lecturer in art and cultural philosophy at the University of Groningen. His book Wat we gemeen hebben: Een filosofie van de meenten ('What We Have in Common: A Philosophy of the Commons') (2022) was shortlisted for the Socratesbeker (Socrates Cup), and with others he published The Rise of the Common City. One of the recurring themes in those books and his research is the role of the city in developing a sense of community.
What does a city need to function?
“It depends on what we mean by functioning. In a one-dimensional economic perspective, a city may appear to function well when it is a value machine for real estate speculation. But the emphasis on economic value can also make a city homogeneous and predictable. Because what makes a city a city? All the life, all the activity, cultural diversity and creativity that residents put into it, and from which they can then draw their energy and social connections. So there must be common spaces – ‘commons’, as I call them in my book – for encounters and inspiration. This way you can organize culture and creativity in an urban context in a sustainable way.”
What role is there for art and artists within the urban context you describe?
“Artists actually play a dual role. They are often (unintentionally) involved in the homogenization and gentrification of the city. Artists act as quartermasters, they make a neighborhood hip. Once that's done, however, prices rise and they have to leave again. But artists can also make you reflect on urban experiences. Art in public space can alienate your view of the city and thus make new perspectives or connections possible.”
Which artists would you like to see work by in Groningen?
“I immediately think of Recetas Urbanas, a Spanish collective that plays with architectural interventions and collaborates with communities to do so. In a neighbourhood in Seville, residents wanted play space for children. Impossible according to the municipality. Meanwhile, containers full of construction waste stood in the streets for months. Recetas Urbanas then applied for permits for a number of containers, on which they built a playground. By finding the loopholes in urban legislation, they try to facilitate things that make communities more livable.”
During Noorderzon Festival of Performing Arts and Society, historian and podcast maker Jelte Posthumus will talk to Thijs Lijster; together they go in search of the possible meaning of the commons in the 21st century. The interview will take place on August 20, from 9 p.m. at Pollux. More information & tickets: Samen Leven: Thijs Lijster › Noorderzon