The construction barriers surrounding the La Butte building, currently under renovation in Échirolles, have been enhanced by an artistic project. Initially uninviting, they now feature tags and a banner from the Villeneuves urban renewal project. The Maison des habitant-es Essarts-Surieux, set to move in early 2027, saw these hoardings as an opportunity to inform and involve residents in the ongoing work.
Responding to residents' frequent inquiries about the construction progress and following the latest consultations in late 2024, the management of the Maison des habitant-es aimed to reinvigorate community engagement. A partnership with TRACé facilitated a cultural initiative, aligning with residents' expressed desire for creative and artistic activities. The project draws inspiration from the Périscopie exhibition, on display at the Centre du graphisme until February 14th.
Around a dozen residents participated in a workshop to create screen-printed masks, led by artist Sophie Glade, also known as Phileas Dog. These masks were enlarged by the artist and affixed to the hoardings, enabling participants to begin familiarizing themselves with the site. Participants like Roland and Florence expressed pride in "their creation and the final result."
Further activities are planned, including painting on the hoardings, creating giant letters spelling "ludothèque" (game library), and collecting portraits and testimonials from residents. These initiatives aim to bring color and meaning back to the construction site hoardings.
Several events are scheduled: Tuesday afternoons in November (2 PM-5 PM) at the MDH for a painting creation on the theme "What do I like about the MDH?". Wednesday afternoons in November (2 PM-5 PM) at the ludothèque for a graphic workshop to create the letters for "ludothèque". The association Et pourquoi pas will soon offer resident photos with texts about their vision for La Butte. The youth service will also organize a graffiti workshop on the hoardings.
