RIJSWIJK, 16 October 2025 — This week, Kunstgebouw celebrated its 30th anniversary with partners and cultural stakeholders at Firma van Buiten in Delft. During the gathering, the organisation presented its new multi-year policy plan (2025–2030), outlining a renewed vision for the future of culture participation and education in South Holland — with particular attention to municipalities such as Rotterdam, where cultural innovation and inclusion continue to shape the region’s creative identity.
Photo credit: Jacqueline Fuijkschot
Culture as a cornerstone for connection
For three decades, Kunstgebouw has worked to make culture accessible to everyone across the province. The new policy plan reaffirms this mission, emphasising collaboration, accessibility, and a future-proof cultural sector. The organisation aims to support municipalities and cultural partners in developing sustainable policies and programmes that strengthen local communities — ensuring that culture remains an essential part of daily life.
Reinier Gerritsen, director of Kunstgebouw, stated:
“Our strength lies in collaboration. Together with municipalities, cultural and social partners, and educational institutions, we’re building a resilient cultural ecosystem for South Holland. We connect knowledge, networks and resources so that culture remains a natural part of everyday life — now and in the future.”
Focus on local impact — from Rotterdam to rural areas
The new plan highlights Kunstgebouw’s role in bridging urban and regional cultural networks. In major cities like Rotterdam, the organisation aims to share knowledge, strengthen collaborations between institutions, and encourage the exchange of best practices with smaller municipalities.
Rotterdam’s strong cultural infrastructure — from its community arts initiatives to its globally recognised museums — serves as a source of inspiration and support for neighbouring towns and rural areas. Kunstgebouw’s approach ensures that the expertise and innovation present in cities benefit the wider province.
Building knowledge and resilience
As outlined in the Meerjarenbeleidsplan Kunstgebouw 2025–2030, the organisation will continue to focus on six core objectives:
- Sharing knowledge and research through tools such as Cultureel Zuid-Holland in kaart, a data platform that maps the region’s cultural landscape.
- Stimulating policy development by helping municipalities create evidence-based culture strategies.
- Building networks that connect educators, policymakers and creators.
- Generating funding by training organisations in grant-writing and connecting them to private and public funds.
- Creating public support for culture through advocacy and communication.
- Organising educational activities for schools and communities, including programmes like Kijk|Kunst.
Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen the cultural ecosystem of South Holland — ensuring that every resident, regardless of background or location, has access to meaningful cultural experiences.
