AvantGardeners

What: Creative interventions to raise the status and public profile of those who maintain urban plants and parks. Why: It’s as if the people who tend the city’s gardens are invisible, Cécile Espinasse noticed. Yet, they make an important contribution to the community. With their gardening know-how, they can add even more value if locals engage with them. How: Dutch company Ergon employs those with physical and mental disabilities in public maintenance. Cecile spent time with the Eindhoven company as an artist-in-residence. Her redesigned uniforms, school workshops and exhibition all invite more interaction with the ‘green experts’ in our midst, giving them a greater sense of pride.