Art in the protein transition

The concept behind the role saw Hendriks help scientists to see the transition to a more plant-based diet, the so-called protein transition, in a new way and generate new ideas. “I am convinced that everyone has an artist inside them,” he says. “Artists are not opposed to scientists – we always have to look for common ground.” While the need for this common ground is huge among scientists, according to Hendriks, there is often a lack of funding, time and trust. “In Hebrew, the words art and trust originate from the same source. The donation from Stichting DOEN reflects trust, offering support without knowing exactly whether or how the project could contribute to the protein transition.”

In the 18 months of his residency, Hendriks developed various visible initiatives, from collaborations with WUR scientists and an exhibition on algae in a museum in Rijswijk to installations during Dutch Design Week. He also created 8 archetypes – shamans, as he calls them – of various types of people involved in the protein transition. This included the Cornucopian, who thinks from abundance and is positive about creative solutions that will save us. There was the Oceanic Farmer, who relies on the possibilities of cultivating protein sources such as algae in the water. And, perhaps the most important shaman of all, the Incredible Shrinking Man – someone who takes a step back, eats a little less, and leaves something for others.

With these archetypes under his arm as cardboard cutouts, Hendriks talked tomany different people to see if they could lead to inspiring insights. He now hopes to further disseminate what he learned. “I sought and found stories revolving around the protein transition that will encourage us to change. The protein transition is largely a practical process in which economic principles, a better offer and stimulating a different demand are key elements. This makes it a bit ‘boring’ for outsiders. It doesn’t tickle our imagination, or at least not sufficiently. And a disinterested imagination cannot inspire new desires.”

Based on his residency in and outside WUR, Hendriks therefore created a magazine called ‘Protein: The Transition. Eating ourselves towards a resilient now’. The publication highlights his meetings, ideas, artworks and archetypes. He also organised a closing symposium on Campus and started a theatre tour to share his experiences and stories in April 2022. Stichting DOEN, which focuses on the aspects Social, Green and Creative, is very pleased with the result: “Hendriks brought all these aspects together in this unique project and it was a great success,” says Maarten Derksen, programme manager at Stichting DOEN.