Embassy of Inclusive Society

Spaces for learning and unlearning

Society today seems to be embracing diversity, but is it actually becoming more just? 

If you look at public discourse and policy changes in the Netherlands, it seems like more space is being made for societal differences. Awareness of the importance of self-expression is growing, and there is more attention to the needs and long-fought rights of groups that have been historically marginalised. However, polarisation and divisions in society are on the increase as well - whether due to increasing inequality, demographic changes or global crises. Ranging from opposing views during the Covid pandemic, to the reactionary backlash to emancipatory movements. While diversity and heterogeneity could offer us the richness of differences, they are still often seen as a problem. What can we do to make sure it is recognised as an opportunity instead?

Continuous learning and unlearning

As a society, we have a major opportunity to grow together from and with our differences. The Embassy of Inclusive Society sees inclusiveness as an continuous process of learning and unlearning. What do we need to (un)learn to be able to live together despite our differences? Which attitudes, skills and habits are important? And what role can designers and makers play in this process?

The Embassy of Inclusive Society is part of The space between us exhibition in the old building at the Van Abbemuseum in Eindhoven. 

The Gym

The building of ‘inclusivity muscle’* will require constant training, which is why designer Gabriel Fontana was asked to provide art direction. The result is a spatial experiment in the form of a gym: The Gym. With The Gym, we aim to discuss accessibility from the bodily experience. The body is not disabled, it is rather our environments that need to be designed otherwise.

^{*Using 'inclusivity muscles' is a term previously used in the Mensenkenners project from social design studio (ink).}

Lorem Ipsum

Visitors will find the Lorem Ipsum installation by the Embassy in collaboration with Marleen Hartjes and Studio The Anderen in the alcove in the old building of the museum. It’s an installation that provides guidelines and tips for the accessible and inclusive presentation of exhibitions. At what height should you present a work of art if someone is visiting an exhibition in a wheelchair? And which text colour should we use to make sure that everyone can read it?

Programme of activities

During Dutch Design Week 2023 (DDW23), the Embassy of Inclusive Society will collaborate with designers, makers, various communities and experiential experts to offer an extensive programme of activities: because inclusiveness is something that we actively and continuously need to train for together! Scroll down to see the complete programme.

Practical information

You will find the Embassy of Inclusive Society exhibition in two rooms in the old building at the Van Abbemuseum. Both will be free to visit. The Gym will be located opposite the entrance of the old building, while the Lorem Ipsum installation will be in the alcove under the arches, in the same entrance hall. Please note that you will need a museum ticket or DDW ticket to be able to see the the rest of the The space between us exhibition.