In February 2013, in collaboration with Sarah Spanton, Holleman, undertook a month-long residency in Poelenburg, a residential district of the city of Zaandam, in the Netherlands.
The project was entitled, 'Waarde in de Wijk / Value in the Neighbourhood', and was part of the Thuisbasis programme of residencies commissioned by Parteon and the city of Zaandam.
Together Holleman and Spanton worked with local people opening up thinking around what is 'of value' in Poelenburg. Much of their thinking and findings are available on the blog.
Towards the end of the residency The 'Waarde in de Wijk / Value in the Neighbourhood' Seminar was held; bringing artists, urban designers, architects, and cultural producers from the UK and the Netherlands together. The seminar was contextualised by Spanton’s and Holleman's research, around identifying and putting to use existing value (assets) in neighbourhoods. The seminar shared research across borders and disciplines; case studies were presented and questions and issues around regeneration, cultural practice and community development were explored.
This residency was one in a series of projects with and about communities and local citizens to find creative ways to explore our local living needs in times of social, economic and environmental crises.