The NW Building, now a space for art, film, and community engagement, is located on the Rechteroever in Aalst. Originally a tobacco factory and later a passementerie, this diverse neighborhood is home to people from various backgrounds, leading to a rich tapestry of perspectives and historical references. This diversity can sometimes create friction when examining heritage practices.

During a guided walk through the neighborhood with researcher and historian Rick Jimenez, we will discuss our ideas and viewpoints on the area’s industrial past and its contemporary implications. How do we envision the future of this neighborhood?

Back at NW, we will collaborate with the artist collective Bebe Books to turn these discussions into a Risoprint poster, which will then be distributed in the area to continue the conversation.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Meeting Time: 13:00 at NW reception, Josse Ringoirkaai, 9300 Aalst
• The walk starts promptly at 13:00. After the walk, we will begin the workshop to design and print posters at Bebe Books Studio.
• Maximum Participants: 15 (16+)

ABOUT RICK JIMENEZ AND HIS RESEARCH “TO BRIDGE A GAP”

Rick Jimenez aims to create a sort of time capsule to capture the present for future historical research. He also explores how conversations about the past can connect people. Through his research “To Bridge a Gap,” Rick encourages people to reflect on their personal relationship with their environment and history through constructive dialogue. He examines how heritage can actively contribute to community building. This year, his focus is primarily on the Rechteroever and Watertorenwijk in Aalst, as well as Ninove and Denderleeuw. “To Bridge a Gap” is a research project by KADOC KU Leuven, the Documentation and Research Center for Religion, Culture, and Society.

ABOUT THE RISO PRINT WORKSHOP
RISO prints are produced using a Risograph printer, which resembles a photocopier but functions like a screen printer. This method creates tactile and vibrant prints with rich spot colors and stencils, offering an affordable and eco-friendly printing option. Though RISO printing has traditionally been used for large volumes in schools and political parties, it has seen a resurgence in recent years as creatives embrace its tactile and unique results!