In Naryn city social life is mostly family life. Especially young public space is rare in the sense that there is literally no place to hang out and meet for Naryn's youth. Due to the lack of cultural program and infrastructure many young people decide to move to the capital if they can afford it. Of course there are restaurants in Naryn, but they serve different purposes and will not provide an atmosphere where to hang out and get to know each other. This is especially true in the winter when it is gets really cold, up to minus 30 degrees Celsius and it is impossible to hang out outside. Even the State University is closed for over 6 weeks because the electricity bills for heating are too expensive to be paid. With this project we want to prevent inner migration, increase quality of life and possibilities of education and self-determination.
There are two universities in Naryn with a total student body of our 2100 students from different countries of Central Asia - and there will be more coming in the next years. With many people of different backgrounds, ideas and needs joining this project we will have the great chance to realize a place that is welcoming everyone. It can open up a space to challenge hierarchies and enable participation in Naryn’s city life. Furthermore, it can provide a safe space and a network for people who do not feel safe when moving about in Naryn by themselves. This is especially true as the bride abduction is practiced in this area and it is dangerous for young woman to move about.
We already wrapped up Phase I of our project. We went on a study trip to the capital, Bishkek, and met founders of cultural spaces, of cafés and of social projects. Even though many told us that it will be hard to work with such a big group (we are 24 students), we managed to agree on a mission statement and are starting to work on the design and program of the café with artists we invited from the capital city. Furthermore we are planning a festival in May to get in touch with Naryn community, raise awareness for our project and spread the spark.
