New generation of artists successfully concludes first edition of Arnhems Stadsatelier
- Fine Art
- Creative Writing
- Research
In 2024–2025, Arnhems Stadsatelier gave five artists - three of them ArtEZ alumni - the opportunity to carry out artistic research at various locations across the city. They shared their work with Arnhem residents, students, and each other. The second edition of Arnhems Stadsatelier will launch in September 2025 with new makers and collaborations.
Artists in residence at Plaatsmaken and Theater a/d Rijn
Four emerging artists developed their artistic practice during the first edition of Arnhems Stadsatelier. The work of Ro Smit (BEAR Fine Art), Mel Kikkert (Creative Writing), Levi Overvest (BEAR Fine Art) and Charlotte Gillain (Amsterdamse Hogeschool voor de Kunsten) addresses social themes and ranges from digital to analogue forms. They explored new ways of making and experiencing art at Theater a/d Rijn and Plaatsmaken. The results were shared through exhibitions, performances and workshops.
In addition, socially engaged theatre-maker Abhishek Thapar investigated the often invisible role of kitchen workers in the hospitality industry. His project, Lacuna Kitchen - a unique performance combining theatre, cooking, community-building and activism - will continue into 2026.
A look at process and research: publication and video portraits
A key aim of the Stadsatelier is to make the artistic process visible. The artists’ experiences, methods and research have been compiled in a publication featuring five interviews. Video portraits also bring their process to life.
Ro Smit: the value of time
At Plaatsmaken, Ro Smit explored the value of time and rest. They created a series of monoprints and interactive art moments in which visitors were invited to take part.
My work takes time. It’s handmade, and my body is not a factory”
Mel Kikkert: the internet as a space for collective imagination
At Theater a/d Rijn, Mel Kikkert explored online fandom and ‘reality shifting’. Their performance blended digital projections with theatre, merging fiction and reality on stage.
Levi Overvest: rituals and print techniques on ceramics
At the Plaatsmaken atelier, Levi Overvest combined screen printing and ceramics. His research resulted in a series of objects where religion, history and personal narratives converge.
Arnhem as a city for growth and experimentation
Arnhems Stadsatelier is an initiative by ArtEZ University of the Arts, in collaboration with Theater a/d Rijn, Stichting Plaatsmaken and The Hub. Together, they support emerging artists and promote collaboration and experimentation. Arnhem remains a place where makers can continue to grow—even after completing their education.
View the full publication with interviews and artistic processes
Read more about Lacuna Kitchen by Abhishek Thapar
Follow Arnhems Stadsatelier on Instagram
Arnhems Stadsatelier is made possible with financial support from the Arnhem City Council.