In Lima, there is no tradition in spatial planning. The city has grown from a few hundred thousand to 10 million. The town is largely made by citizens themselves. Their responsibility is especially the private domain. The public space is unformed. There is a real want for a functioning public space.

Public space as we know it does not exist here. In all areas the shared space is problematic. Physically because of the dominance of the car. Socially, because of the omnipresent walls and fences. The houses seem to have their backs to the street. Moreover, public space is regularly snapped up by insolent businesses or citizens.
In collaboration with artists space TUPAC we give a number of workshops called The People are the Planner to explore this issue.
The workshop program consist of exploring, interviewing users and making use of public space. Then processing your experiences into a plan. The method works. We work with enthusiasm and dedication. The approach is unusual for them. The plans made are very diverse and useful

As a result of the workshop a small group wants to work more on the "public space" theme. Their concept is "sharing space. After a brainstorm they decide to paint alternative zebras. A pedestrian is in constant danger here. Alternative zebras could maybe change public opinion and consciousness.

Everyone looks forward to the illegal painting at night. But we propose an alternative route:
- First, create a design and proposal.
- Take that to the authorities.
- Only if they say no, you can go to work illegally.
Because if you want change you must openly demand it first.

It's a different way of working for the group. They first struggle with it. A few weeks later, there are designs, a folder and a press release. Meanwhile, we have networked with people in the circles of the mayor. We go with the proposal to the public consultation hours in the town hall. We are received by her and the advice on the plan by the accompanying officials is: 'no objection'.

The practical work can begin. We made molds. Find a location. When we ask for an official permit it is refused. 'No objection' is apparently something different. We decide to make the zebra anyway during Culture Night in a public performance. The public loves it. The police can not intervene.

The following Monday we go to the mayor to show her the 'test'. She is enthusiastic and promises to cooperate.

When we are back in the Netherlands we receive news: permission granted.
The designs are implemented. It is picked up in the media. Even on TV. Mission accomplished.

design for MATE, the museum of photographer Mario Testino

folder for plan CEBRA

deliberation with mayor Jessica Vargas

performance on the Noche en Blanco