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Franchise Unit

2002

Atelier Van Lieshout

This work of art is a multifunctional building with a commercial kitchen, plumbing, power supply, and wastewater treatment plant. Middelheim Museum uses it for various activities, but according to the artist, it can also be the center of a cohousing project. It is possible to attach individual houses to it that can use the common facilities of the “Franchise Unit.”

© SABAM Belgium 2025. Photo: Michel Wuyts

Details

  • Plan number: Z05
  • Zone: Zone East
  • Title: Franchise Unit
  • Creator: Atelier Van Lieshout
  • Date: 2002
  • Material: polyester, wood, metal
  • Acquisition:
  • Object number: MID.B.501

According to Joep van Lieshout’s rebellious utopia, “Franchise Unit” can be a mobile “free state” that can be shipped anywhere to create a new and better society.

In 1995, Dutch artist Joep van Lieshout founded AVL (Atelier Van Lieshout). The collective consists of professional sculptors who also make socially engaged, sometimes slightly provocative installations.

Most of AVL’s work is practical in nature, solid and simple in execution. It ranges from polyester furniture, bathrooms, and mobile living units to complete architectural renovations.

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