Martin en Inge Riebeek

The Essential is about the essence of humanity. Human beings are not solitary creatures, we live together as social beings. Artist duo Martin and Inge Riebeek have always focused on ‘the encounter’ as the center of their artworks.
For the video art project The Essential which they started in 2011 Martin and Inge ask people from around the world what is essential to them in their lives: the things that matter most to them. In the past decade hundreds of people from a total of 18 countries have shared their stories with them. The Essential reveals the way in which we are unique, but also highlights the similarities we share despite our differences. The stories show what is happening in the world right now; at times revealing a disturbing, yet important message.
The project has a strong connection to our Human Cities initiative. Human Cities is an active expression of the AkzoNobel company purpose to create everyday essentials to make people’s lives more liveable and inspiring. It’s everything AkzoNobel does for and with society and the commitment to improving, energizing and regenerating urban communities across the world.