Step 5 of 8

The room as The Hague pride

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From discussing the green-yellow scarf Gijs designed, it became evident that he has a close connection to the city in which he lives, The Hague. The Hague plays an important part in Gijs’ living space. His emotional link to the city, both through growing up there as well as his involvement in the party scene, are clearly visible in the objects throughout his room: various stickers and clothes from the PIP, merchandise from local stores and artists, and the occasional green-yellow tones all pop from the walls and put Gijs’ identity as a Hagenees boldly on display.

The city knows many sides, from the core ADO supporters to the political seat of power, from Duindorp to Schilderswijk. Relative to the amount of inhabitants, the main city centre is quite small with disproportionately few bars and clubs. Different youth subcultures easily collide and intermingle, and one club attracts many of the young adults in The Hague: the PIP.

Gijs has worked at the PIP for 2 years now as a graphic designer, starting out with an internship for his studies which resulted in part time employment. Besides throwing parties, the PIP organizes film nights and expositions as well, which create a different take on the night scene and give Gijs the opportunity to put his creative impetus to practice. It has been an important step in Gijs’ artistic career, since being a self-employed artist is not the easiest way of making ends meet. Still, Gijs does mention that it took some time for him to adjust to producing art on commission. It differs from being able to follow your instincts, and sometimes you have to rein in yourself in order to meet demands.

If anything, PIP reflects multifaceted The Hague. When attending one of the parties, either as a guest or while working, Gijs loves to experience the varying cultural flavors that merge on the dancefloor. It is a confirmation of the pride he takes in coming from and living in The Hague. Being able to meet new kinds of people who come from all over The Hague, enriches Gijs’ image of the city and its inhabitants.