A Portrait of the Neighborhood Residents
The Volkshortus was conceived by artists Saskia Janssen and George Korsmit, with the idea of using plants to create a portrait of the neighborhood residents and their diversity (80 nationalities). "The greenhouse provides a unique opportunity for community engagement," says Sobia Dilpazir Abbasi, coordinator of Volkshortus Selwerd. "The Volkshortus brings people together in a biological and healthy lifestyle, fostering a sense of peace, patience, and accomplishment. It's also a place where people can share knowledge and skills. The greenhouse enhances the neighborhood's beauty and offers a priceless learning space, especially for young children." In collaboration with local schools, Kunstpunt has organized an educational program around the Volkshortus. During school holidays, there were green craft mornings in the greenhouse. Many neighborhood children participated, making flower pots, wind catchers, and paper flowers and plants.
New Location
With the Harvest Festival, the Volkshortus said farewell to its current location, situated in the courtyard between Elzenlaan and Hazelaarstraat. In 2025, the Volkshortus will be rebuilt at a new location in Selwerd, though the exact spot has yet to be determined.
Volkshortus Selwerd was realized by Kunstpunt Groningen in collaboration with the Municipality of Groningen and the housing corporation Nijestee. The project was initiated as part of the neighborhood renewal in Selwerd.