Hookers and artists try to coexist in Amsterdam

Amsterdam doesn't want some businesses to grow. It seems unusual in a recession (and yes, the Netherlands is feeling it, too), but I guess the situation isn't so dire that they can't be picky over there. So, the locals are fighting the business of naked people with the business of art – which clearly has no history of portraying the uncovered human form (feel free to chortle).

The city of Amsterdam has teamed up with a housing corporation. Together, they are acquiring rooms formerly used as brothels and renting them out as studios to artists. This ground-level contribution to the arts is inspiring. While it's nice to see an established artist get a hefty grant to pursue a specific vision, the measure taken in Amsterdam gives emerging artists (and even those less established) a shot at success.

Of course, some people didn't find out in time.

A few prostitute clients have come up to doors that are now art studios, seeking their former flames.

Some working girls aren't thrilled about this development, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. Since we're dealing with Europe, you know there has to be a union involved ... and the hookers have one. They say that there's a history of prostitutes and artists living side-by-side, "like they did in Paris in the 19th century." Further, ladies of the night have inspired their new neighbors, with the most famous probably being Pablo Picasso's "Ladies of Avignon."

Given the plunge in the global art market, one thing is certain: people will continue to get screwed in these apartments.

Filed under: Europe, Netherlands, News