Chance for a Change

Since 1993 and on invitation from art institutions, the artist group WochenKlausur develops concrete proposals aimed at small, but nevertheless effective improvements to socio-political deficiencies. Proceeding even further and invariably translating these proposals into action, WochenKlausur sees artistic creativity no longer as a formal act but as an intervention into society.

Until today over 30 projects have been carried out internationally. The first project in Vienna, Austria succeeded in making medical care available to the homeless. Since then, a mobile clinic has treated six hundred homeless people per month free of charge. An invitation from the Zurich Shedhalle followed, where WochenKlausur established a pension for drug-addicted women. Further projects have been implemented among others in Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Portugal, Netherland and USA.

On invitation of The Israeli Center for Digital Art the artist group WochenKlausur will realize a project in Jessy Cohen, Holon in January 2012.

During a research visit in summer 2010 the group learned about the living conditions in Jessy Cohen Neighbourhood and decided to make these circumstances to the subject of its project. In January 2012, WochenKlausur founded an initiative for residents in public houses who cannot afford to improve their housing situation.

To realize these urgent improvements without cost for those who cannot afford them, partnerships were established with local businesses, municipal authorities and professionals that could donate materials, time, funding and expertise. Also community groups, schools and youth groups were asked to participate with volunteer work. Depending on their capabilities and resources these partners form a network of assistance.

After the initiation of the project by WochenKlausur, a coordinator manages the continuation of the program, housed in the Lazaros Community Center. This initiative is now part of the Jessy Cohen Project run by the Israeli Center for Digital Art in cooperation with the Lazaros Community Center.

A committee has been established to develop criteria for prioritizing possible renovations, and will meet periodically to review them. Membership includes Eyal Danon from the Israeli Center for Digital Art, Yossi Zaide from the Lazarus Community Center, Shuki Perez from Amidar, and Danit Eliasi or Dalia Dulman from the Municipal Social Welfare Department.

Over the course of the project WochenKlausur visited different apartments to begin amassing a list of needed renovations.