The Linen Project is a research project within the Practice Held in Common programme. Prospective participants are invited and can apply to conduct their research and engage their skills for a two-year period within the context of the Linen Project. The Linen Project offers an extensive research environment with a diversity of local and international partners. Together we explore, research and activate the economic viability of small-scale linen production in the Netherlands and in other localities.

Can we revive, in a sustainable manner, the local production of linen and linen products in the Netherlands? Can we create self-sustaining local ecologies and regenerative ecosystems? How can we ensure that small-scale agricultural and textile production become economically viable? How can the development of hybrid business models – such as worker cooperatives and other social enterprises focused on strengthening local communities – help us to improve the quality of life by re-establishing a natural balance with the earth upon which we live?

The Linen Project is an initiative of ArtEZ MA Practice Held in Common and Crafts Council Nederland. Partners include the Netherlands Open Air Museum (Arnhem), Biodynamic farms De Horsterhof (Duiven) and Ekoboerderij De Lingehof (Randwijk), Avans University of Applied Sciences Sustainable Strategy and Innovation research group, Hochschule Niederrhein Mönchengladbach, Wageningen University & Research, Van de Bilt Seeds and Flax B.V., Foundation Werkverband Friese Rassen, Enschede Textielstad and TapRoot Farms Nova Scotia, to name a few.

The Linen Project is financially supported by the BankGiro Loterij Fonds, Arnhem City Council, the Province of Gelderland and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).