Zwolle through Mila’s eyes: “A city full of memories”
- Design
For Mila Bosgoed, living in Zwolle was no coincidence. She’s studying Comic Design, a programme that’s only offered in one place in the Netherlands: ArtEZ in Zwolle. “My dad always said I should go to art school, but I had no idea I’d end up in Zwolle,” she laughs. Originally from Zoetermeer, Mila quickly grew to feel at home in her new city.
Mila visited several art schools before choosing ArtEZ, but Zwolle stood out. “What really drew me in was the small scale, the small classes, and the personal attention. Comic Design is such a unique programme, it’s only offered here. But honestly, even if I had the choice to study it somewhere else, I’d still choose Zwolle. The connection I felt with the academy was just right. Everything clicked.”
A personal connection with the academy ánd the city
At seventeen, Mila decided to leave the familiarity of Zoetermeer behind. Moving to a new city was daunting, but it turned out to be the best decision she could have made. “When I visit Zoetermeer now, it feels way too small for me. There’s not much to do for people my age, and most of my old friends have moved away. Zwolle has it all: cozy spots, character-filled buildings, and so much happening without it being overwhelming.”
A home full of inspiration
Now, Mila lives in a 1930s house just outside the city center. “It’s a bit rundown, but that’s part of its charm. If I lived in a modern apartment, I think I’d have less inspiration.” For Mila, Zwolle is a city bursting with stories; perfect for sparking ideas for her comics. “I often head outside with my sketchbook. The atmosphere of the city, the historic buildings, the water, always give me fresh ideas. That old-world vibe and Zwolle’s unique character constantly inspire me.”
Our academy is a huge part of the creative scene in Zwolle. I don’t have to look far to meet interesting people. Everything I need is right here.”
Creative community
Beyond the city, ArtEZ itself is a hub for creativity. “Our academy is a huge part of the creative scene in Zwolle. I don’t have to look far to meet interesting, artistic people. Everything I need is right here.” In her free time, Mila loves exploring the city with friends. “In the summer, we’re usually hanging out at the city park or Jacks, where a lot of art academy students go. It’s small and close-knit, but there’s always something fun to do.”
A city full of memories - already!
For Mila, Zwolle is more than just a place to study. “It’s a city full of memories - already! Everywhere I go, I think, ‘Oh, I had such a great time here.’ Moving to Zwolle feels like starting a new chapter in my life. A fresh start, full of new opportunities and memories. Even the small things, like getting accepted to the academy or just the vibe of the city, mean so much to me.”
A special chapter
Mila is optimistic about her future but fully embraces the present. “It feels like my life really began when I moved to Zwolle. Most of my high school years were during the pandemic, and suddenly I was here—at art school, in a city that just feels right.” Every day, she gets to do what she’s always dreamed of: drawing. “I’m so happy I finally get to do what I love most. When I look back on my time in Zwolle, I know this will be such a special chapter. It’s where I learned to be independent, find my own path, and truly embrace my creativity.”
