Despite high hopes brought on by the recent cold snap, Elfstedentocht is off. The historic 200 km speed skating race/leisure skating tour between 11 cities in the northern Netherlands can only take place if the ice is frozen to at least 15 cm along the entire course. The last time such conditions were met was 1997.
Instead, the good people of Rotterdam are invited to participate in a tocht of a different feather: RAiR Bike Tour #4, which showcases the work and studios of the current crop of international artists, including Daniela Di Paulis, Simona Da Pozzo, Tetushi Higoshino, and Hellebou, currently in town as part of the Rotterdam Artist In Residence Network. Our contribution was a “cinema picnic” at WORM, featuring 16mm projection and Echo Park-style spicy fruit. Thanks to Alex at WORM for opening up the space for us, and to Maaike Gottschal of RAiR for organizing, navigating and bringing tasty cookies.
The day closes with the loveliest dinner at the cozy home of Renee Turner and Cesare Davolio. Renee, originally from Texas, is the Director of the Piet Zwart Institute and part of the multi-visual research foundation De Geuzen; Cesare is an Italian animator and the maker of a mean Gnocco Frito. Also in attendance are cinematographer Stefano Bertacchini and graduate student/Magic Bar co-host Eric Philippoz who puts an already-incredible meal of mouth-watering salumi, vegetables, cheese and the aforementioned Gnocco Frito over the top with a little Crazy Nurse Mango. We leave at the witching hour, full of good cheer, inspiration and future plans for food tours, tunnel tours, and collaborations of all kinds…
Looks like you have a great bunch of friends to work & play with….good stuff!
I like the Russian hat the man in the dinner photo is wearing.
dm XXX
There are a lot of great furry hats in the streets of Rotterdam! I lost my own little toque in the library and was heartbroken… but someone turned it in to the Lost & Found! Gotta love a happy ending…