Synopsis
Going for a stroll, sitting on a bench, perhaps feed the ducks. Green spaces in cities usually conjure up lacklustre, uninspiring images. But over the last few years there has been a growing awareness that a more intense experience of nature in the neighbourhood can have a positive influence the well-being of local residents. The Rotterdam Old West area is well known for being a problem area, but also for its exceptional multicultural community. Though space is at a premium, miracles have been worked with the few square metres of green space that there are. A local park was created, a botanic garden was planted and hidden among the houses there are allotments for the predominantly immigrant community. Many of them come from an agricultural background, which is evidenced by their immaculately tended gardens. Gemengde Sta - Impressie van een Stadsoase (Mixed Salad – Impressions of a City Oasis) shows how beautiful these little bits of nature are, and the great importance they have for those who use them. Not using the educational tones of development workers, but seen through the eyes of the attentive visitor, who realises with wonderment that happiness can be found in a sprig of mint.


Pieter van Huystee Film
Noordermarkt 37-39 – 1015 NA Amsterdam – t +31 20 421 0606 / f +31 20638 6255
www.pvhfilm.nl / festival handling Matthijs Koenen Matthijs Koenen