Create Your World

As part of Rotterdam European Youth Capital 2009, the project Create Your World was organized — a two-day coaching event offering 300 young people, from teens to young adults, the opportunity to discuss, pitch, and develop their dreams. For this occasion, Studio Ruwedata, led by Thijs Kelder, designed the impressive artwork Create Your World: Real Life Heroes.

At the heart of the project was the Gallery of Heroes — an installation of 300 portraits celebrating the young participants alongside their personal heroes, such as Gandhi, Mandela, and Cruijff. Upon arrival, the participants were divided into groups, each linked to a hero. During the program, their portraits were quickly photographed, edited, and printed, transforming a blank wall into a Hall of Heroes by the end of the day. The surprise was complete when the participants saw their own faces displayed among their icons.

The presentation took place in the YourSpace pavilion at the Hilton Hotel in Rotterdam. The project was initiated by Contain.r. Mothership developed the concept, oversaw the participation process, coordinated the project, and was responsible for its execution.