Visiting Bizkoshnica coworking hub this four-day exchange was an invaluable opportunity to deepen my understanding of the contemporary landscape for artists and creative entrepreneurs in Croatia and the Netherlands. I was particularly drawn to this program because of its focus on sustainability in artistic careers, which is something that I find deeply relevant in my own professional practice. As a cultural professional, I am constantly seeking ways to support creatives in navigating the evolving industry landscape, and this exchange provided a rich platform to explore the structural challenges artists face in both countries. More importantly, it offered an immersive setting to discuss best practices, funding models, and entrepreneurial strategies that can help creatives build resilient careers.
Throughout my time at Bizkoshnica I had the chance to engage in discussions with local artists, cultural managers, and entrepreneurs. This allowed me to compare the Dutch and Croatian approaches to artistic career sustainability, highlighting both common struggles and unique strategies. I gained insights into Croatia’s artist support structures, the impact of public funding, and the role of coworking hubs in fostering collaboration. Additionally, I was able to share my own experiences from the Netherlands, contributing to a cross-cultural dialogue on strengthening the creative economy. This exchange also expanded my professional network, opening doors for future collaborations between cultural initiatives in both countries.
The program was dynamic and engaging, involving a mix of panel discussions, networking events, and hands-on workshops. I participated in roundtable talks where we dissected the realities of freelance artistic work, explored alternative funding models, and discussed how to bridge the gap between artistic practice and entrepreneurship. Beyond structured activities, informal interactions at the hub were just as valuable. I connected with local designers, independent curators, and creative start-up founders, learning about their experiences firsthand. The Bizkoshnica community welcomed me with openness, and I was inspired by their innovative mindset and commitment to fostering a sustainable creative ecosystem.
