Description
Maison Folie Wazemmes, located in the heart of the working-class, mixed-race district of Wazemmes, is one of Lille?s must-see cultural venues. Housed in a former textile mill refurbished for the Lille 2004 ? European Capital of Culture event, it is a perfect illustration of the transformation of industrial heritage into a living artistic space. The building, redesigned by Dutch architect Lars Spuybroek and the Nox agency, combines historic buildings and contemporary extensions, including an auditorium clad in an astonishing glittering metallic skin.
This vast complex of almost 5,000 m² is a veritable cultural factory, combining residences, exhibition halls, creative spaces, workshops, an auditorium and social areas. An interior street, inherited from the industrial site, leads from one building to the next, providing a meeting place and a direct link with life in the neighborhood. Maison Folie Wazemmes is distinguished by its multi-disciplinary programming: live shows, concerts, exhibitions, performances, festivals, creative workshops, not to mention the regular hosting of artists in residence.
Faithful to the spirit of Maisons Folie, it promotes popular culture, accessibility and artistic diversity. It also offers a wide range of outreach activities, including tours, workshops, discovery tours, meetings with artists and open rehearsals, in partnership with local cultural, associative and educational players. A true crossroads between contemporary creation and heritage, Maison Folie Wazemmes is a lively, open venue deeply rooted in Lille?s cultural identity.
