The artist collective Richtung22 has been instructed to leave Esch-sur-Alzette’s Bâtiment 4 by 30 April following unsuccessful mediation with the cultural association frEsch. The eviction notice, delivered Tuesday, marks the latest development in an ongoing dispute between the two parties.
Richtung22, which declined interview requests from RTL Radio, had occupied the space rent-free under an agreement tied to Esch2022’s European Capital of Culture programme. That arrangement expired in May 2024. frEsch director Loïc Clairet cited multiple factors in the non-renewal decision, including alleged property damage and cleanliness issues in the collective’s workspace.
The collective strongly disputes these characterisations, asserting in a press release that such claims unfairly portray members as “vandals” and “unhygienic.”
Clairet explained that while frEsch had accommodated a 2024 extension request, the collective subsequently failed to meet the agreed departure timeline. Mediation attempts collapsed last week when Richtung22 proposed remaining until 2029 – a timeframe which Clairet said “obviously does not suit us at all.”
Clairet acknowledged the challenges facing artist collectives seeking affordable spaces, while emphasising the prolonged nature of this dispute. The frEsch director characterised the collective’s proposed 2029 departure date as “completely unrealistic” and indicative of irreconcilable differences between the parties.
The cultural association maintains that eviction remains the only viable solution, though Clairet indicated some flexibility regarding the 30 April deadline. “If they are in the process of finding a new place and they need another month, we wouldn’t be against supporting them, even if it’s two months, but it wouldn’t be more than two months of support,” he stated, while reiterating frEsch’s readiness to pursue legal action if necessary.
Richtung22’s written response condemned what it perceives as heavy-handed tactics, arguing that the eviction notice coupled with legal threats demonstrates frEsch’s unwillingness to engage in equitable dialogue. The collective confirmed it is currently evaluating potential responses to Tuesday’s notice, though no specific course of action has been determined.
