sold out symposium 

On Friday afternoon, policymakers, artists, and other professionals attended the sold-out Blikopener Symposium in the Huiskamer of the Suikerfabriek. Leading up to the Blikopener Festival, artists and social designers collaborated with Groningen residents on various co-creations addressing social issues. During the symposium, they shared their experiences with the audience, focusing on how art and culture can be applied to societal challenges. Meanwhile, attendees enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by chef Annemiek van der Meijden, fully inspired by the themes of the co-creations.

co-creations at blikopener festival

Artist Elly van Eeghem of CAMPUSatelier discussed Publiek Plan, a project where she and Groningen residents created a fictional city map based on their experiences of public spaces. Artist Peik Suyling explained how he came up with his Bakery of Simplicity: a mobile bakery designed to connect people and engage them with societal issues. Volunteers and clients of the Groningen Food Bank shared their project with theater maker Ton Brandsen. Natascha Snoek, owner of the Clothing Bank the Sea Container, talked about the enthusiastic collaboration with DRUKcollectief, which makes visitors' stories visible.

Allard Medema and Martijn Engelbregt from Circus Andersom showed how their conversations with Groningen farmers led to a Journey to the Earth. Mohammed Yusuf Boss highlighted the indispensable contributions of volunteers and youth in keeping the Fivel football club in Zeerijp alive. Artist Madelinde Hageman explained how she used photography to depict the feelings of underage youths from AZC Groningen. Lastly, creative multi-talent Cissy Joan and The Pink Cube co-founder Arlo van Lierop discussed stereotypes and prejudices. At Blikopener, Cissy gives various city initiatives a platform in De Avondblik.

Blikopener festival 2024

All the results of the co-creations can be seen at Blikopener Festival, which takes place on Friday evening, June 7, and Saturday evening, June 8, at the Suikerfabriek from 6:30 PM to 2:00 AM. Don’t have tickets yet? Buy them now!