Amsterdam
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Thijs de Zeeuw: Architect in Residence Exploring Urban Ecology and Nature-Inclusive Design in Amsterdam

Delve into de NatuurOptimist's unique research at ARCAM, examining the city through non-human perspectives.

Explore the innovative Architect in Residence program at ARCAM, featuring Thijs de Zeeuw, also known as 'de NatuurOptimist'. This residency challenges conventional urban design by investigating how non-human viewpoints can enrich shared city spaces. Discover how nature-inclusive principles can reconcile urban life with its ecology, fostering biodiversity and multi-species cohabitation. Learn about his research, including a speculative 'Palingpark' for Amsterdam's Oosterdok.

About Thijs de Zeeuw: Architect in Residence #2 of 2021 at Amsterdam Centre for Architecture (ARCAM) in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Thijs de Zeeuw: Architect in Residence #2 of 2021 at Amsterdam Centre for Architecture (ARCAM) in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

This page details the 'Architect in Residence' program featuring Thijs de Zeeuw, also known as 'de NatuurOptimist'. The program focuses on exploring urban environments from non-human perspectives and integrating nature-inclusive design principles into spatial planning.

Curatorial context

Thijs de Zeeuw, also known as 'de NatuurOptimist', is featured as the second Architect in Residence (AiR) at ARCAM for 2021. His residency involves examining the city from perspectives other than human ones, investigating how this unique viewpoint can enrich our shared spaces. The project challenges the traditional dichotomy between city and nature, highlighting the rich biodiversity present in urban areas and the necessity of reconciling city life with its ecology. De Zeeuw's research delves into 'nature-inclusive design', moving beyond mere ecosystem services to truly explore the desires of non-human inhabitants. His work at ARCAM includes an investigation into the underwater life of the Oosterdok, specifically for a speculative 'Palingpark' (Eel Park) designed for multi-species cohabitation. This research builds upon previous projects, including 'Stem voor de Paling' (Vote for the Eel) during the 'EndLESS Amsterdam' exhibition. De Zeeuw will also provide advice on ongoing exhibitions and connect different urban inhabitants throughout his residency.

Admission and ticket notes

Information regarding ticketing or admission for this residency program is not provided on this page. Visitors are typically directed to general visit information for ARCAM.

Thijs de Zeeuw: Architect in Residence #2 of 2021 key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Thijs de Zeeuw: Architect in Residence #2 of 2021 at Amsterdam Centre for Architecture (ARCAM) in Amsterdam

Venue
Amsterdam Centre for Architecture (ARCAM)
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
From Apr 20, 2021
Artist line / attribution
Featuring Thijs de Zeeuw (de NatuurOptimist), Architect in Residence. His background includes landscape architecture and designing animal habitats for ARTIS zoo, focusing on empathy with animal needs and designing with unpredictability.
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