Katoenhuis presents: Turning Tides Residency program in collaboration with RanMarine. First installation presented during Toffler Festival’s 10th anniversary

Marjolein Vlaming, director and co–founder of Katoenhuis and Richard Hardiman, CEO RanMarine.Credit: Boudewijn Bollmann

The Turning Tides Residency is a program that invites artists to create mobile, floating art installations on top of WasteSharks—autonomous vessels designed to efficiently collect waste from the water. It aims to raise awareness about water pollution while showcasing a tech-driven, innovative approach to environmental cleanup. Beyond its practical impact, the residency offers artists a unique platform for experimentation at the intersection of art, technology, and sustainability. This way, the project not only raises environmental consciousness but also introduces audiences to the work of diverse artists.

The title Turning Tides is inspired by the Dutch expression “het tij keren,” which literally means “to turn the tide.” It reflects the idea that even large, seemingly irreversible issues—like water pollution—can be challenged and redirected through the use of art and technology.

The Turning Tides Residency was initiated by Katoenhuis, Rotterdam’s IX Hub, in collaboration with RanMarine. The program fosters collaboration between regions, cultural institutions, artists, and tech companies.

The first result of this residency–the artwork SEPIA by Wes Broersen–will be presented during the 10th anniversary of the Toffler Festival at Roel Langerakpark in Rotterdam on May 31st. The vessels can be remotely controlled, allowing festival visitors to interact directly with the installation and its purpose.

Download the press release below (NL/EN):

Press pack_Turning Tides Residency_NL–EN.zip

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