Opportunities for young makers
But precisely because it is an association, the financial resources are limited, explains ceramist Lieke Hendrikse. “As an association, we are not allowed to have a lot of capital of our own, so we do not have a fund for sustainability. But we do have an abundance of items and services. That is how Monique Zuyderduin came up with the idea of organizing an auction.”
Many studio owners make something available: from a graffiti workshop to various art prints. Lieke offers a ceramic set herself. “I like to give something back to the association. It has brought me so much. It really gives young makers and starters a chance, and it is a place where you can just try out. It has really made my company grow,” she says, as she sheds a tear.
Precisely to offer all young makers of the future the opportunity she had, sustainability is so important to make it future-proof, she explains. “Monique has sometimes had to work here at 35 degrees. And when the wind blows hard, it drafts like crazy here. You just hear the building squeaking and creaking.”
Sandwich panels
With the auction they save for sandwich panels, draft excluders, exterior walls and closing cracks in the facade. The auction is part of a series of fundraising efforts. “We are going to investigate even more ways to raise money,” says Lieke. “We also look at the various sustainability subsidies that we can use.”
They all put their shoulders to the wheel, and that is also typical of De Broedmachine. “We also take care of each other here. If someone is unable to work due to illness, we continue to pay the rent from the reserve,” she says. “And that is precisely why we must now raise money for sustainability.”
The auction started on October 15 and closes on November 15. The festive benefit evening will take place on November 21. More information can be found on the Broedmachine website.