Info
The arts, like journalism, science, and the judiciary, form an essential pillar of the democratic state. This position is under pressure from external developments, but also raises questions within the sector itself. What does artistic freedom mean in a time of political tension, economic dependencies, and censorship?
In this session, we explore the increasing pressure on the freedom of the arts and the role the cultural sector itself can play in protecting and shaping it. How do we reclaim and safeguard this role? How do we reshape it in practice? And to what extent is the importance of this position actually broadly supported within the sector?
Following a brief introduction and clarification of terms and current developments, including insights from the advice of the Dutch Council for Culture (Raad voor Cultuur), a first panel discussion will address the relationship between art and government. This will include questions about direct and indirect forms of influence, the role of (local and international) funding, and the tension between cultural autonomy and policy frameworks.
In the second panel, the focus shifts to the relationship between art and society. How do makers and institutions deal with public pressure, societal expectations, and increasingly visible reactions to artistic work? And how do cultural institutions position themselves in a society where neutrality is increasingly being questioned?
We conclude the morning with an interactive workshop session in which participants explore together how festivals and cultural institutions can actively contribute to enabling public debate (and thus a healthy democratic culture). The session ends with a plenary wrap-up to gather insights and future visions from the group.
This session will be held in English. We use a bring-your-own-language approach: feel free to speak in Dutch or another language — as long as someone in the room can translate into English, you are good to go.
To participate, you need a (free) entry ticket. You can only obtain a ticket if you are logged in as an Oerol Professional. For access, you need both your Oerol Professionals or ‘Wij Maken Oerol’ festival wristband and your ticket.
Afterward, you are cordially invited to join us for a communal lunch to continue the conversation. No ticket reservation is required; the lunch costs €7.50 and can be paid for at the MIWB on the day itself. The lunch is vegetarian as standard. Do you have other dietary requirements or allergies? Please email professionals@oerol.nl at least one week in advance.
Not yet accredited? Apply here. Questions or issues? Email professionals@oerol.nl.