by Angelina Kumar

In this blog I, Angelina Kumar, artist and fellow pioneer for positive change, will attempt, bi-weekly, to capture and share glimpses and insights of the brave and ever evolving journey that is unfolding at the Basecamp for tactical Imaginaries.

"Welcome one and all to the Basecamp blog. In this blog I, Angelina Kumar, artist and fellow pioneer for positive change, will attempt, bi-weekly, to capture and share glimpses and insights of the brave and ever evolving journey that is unfolding at the Basecamp for tactical Imaginaries. FYI if you don’t know what the Basecamp is or you need a refresher, then you can read about it on the home page.

In this blog you can expect to read an eclectic range of stories, reports, and snippets of this honest, raw experimental testing ground of transition, collectivism, and co-imagination of this ever-growing mutual support network.

So, buckle up as it's going to be quite a ride…

Having just stepped into Basecamp, let me give you a glimpse into what I’ve observed so far. Situated in the center of Utrecht, this bright wide space, has interiors which are flexibly shifting according to the needs, activities and events being curated by the over 20 collectives and individuals sharing the place so far.

I joined and listened to the weekly assembly meeting were sitting around the table was artist Jeanne van Heeswijk, Grace Lostia from Basic Activist Kitchen & Free Shop, Lynn from Third Space Collective Spoorloos, Feminist Collective Para, architect and researcher Merve Bedir, cultural worker and community organizer Alejandro Navarete Cortes, Natalia who is one of the caretakers of the space, creative producer Esther Dascha Westra, artist and woodworker Gerado Gomez Tonda, and business director Lisanne van Vucht. There is a feeling of excitement and tremors of change in the air. Everyone who is at the table is on even keel with each other, working and offering their skills and competencies to the best of their abilities. While agendas, ideas, and programs are being shuffled about during the meeting, I’ve underpinned a few key things from these rumblings.

A physical space is being shared and in so doing the following questions are arising. How can things be adaptable to give room for other initiatives, ideas, programs, and imaginations? How can the different collectives share the physical responsibilities of the space such as the cooking, hosting, cleaning, while ensuring that various mobility requirements are taken into consideration?

Collective work takes more time and therefore things shouldn’t be rushed or pushed unnecessarily. The process is just as important as the outcome. I personally started to visualise a new mycelium network being formed.

During this meeting I also notice a sense of honesty, openness, and willingness to listen to one another and give room for support in any way, shape, or form that one can do within their capacity without pushing past their own limitations. There is flexibility and understanding amongst this group which is refreshing to witness. I’m quite certain that this journey isn’t going to be perfect, but with these principles already being enacted, accompanied by a willingness to learn through doing, I’m excited to see what will unfold along the way. (Click this link to find out more about the collectives that are present in this space.)

If any of this inspires you or piques your interest, then be sure to drop by and say hello or join one of the upcoming programs. Or if you know of anyone else that would appreciate something like this than spread the word. Either way you are welcome to the Basecamp, a place where co-creating mutual support is being tested and fostered."

Sunny Greetings,

Angelina