While visiting Athens, my aim was to explore how Romantso Creative hub & cultural center fosters creativity, supports start-ups in the cultural sector, and cultivates an inclusive, multidisciplinary artistic community. Over the course of four days, I had the opportunity to observe their workspaces, participate in their cultural programming, engage with local artists and creative entrepreneurs, and exchange best practices for running an independent creative hub. This report highlights the key moments, cultural exchanges, and professional insights gained during my time at Romantso.
The team at Romantso welcomed me warmly, introducing me to the resident creatives, designers, and entrepreneurs who use the space daily. That evening, I was invited to attend a live music event in their venue, an electrifying performance that set the tone for my visit. Romantso isn’t just a coworking space; it’s a meeting point where artists, musicians, and creatives converge to share ideas, challenge norms, and push artistic boundaries.
During my time there, I sat in on a brainstorming session with the Romantso team, where we exchanged ideas on sustainable funding models for independent creative hubs and ways to increase community engagement. It was fascinating to see how Romantso integrates local businesses, artists, and creative professionals into its daily operations, creating a fluid and collaborative environment that adapts to the needs of its community. We discussed the common challenges creative hubs face across Europe, from funding difficulties and gentrification to the need for stronger cultural policies supporting independent spaces. These exchanges helped me see the parallels between Athens and Barcelona’s cultural ecosystems, strengthening my belief that collaboration between creative hubs can drive meaningful change in the arts sector.
This visit has not only expanded my network but has also sparked new ideas for future collaborations between our hubs.
