Dialogue session on operating grants: visual arts
In the run-up to the next round of operating subsidies (2028-2032), Flanders Arts Institute is organising a working day on the functions of development, production and presentation in the visual arts.
We will build on the findings from the recent Landscape Sketch of the Arts and the various sessions we organised on this topic in 2024 and 2025. Questions such as “how are these functions fulfilled today, where are we getting stuck, where are the opportunities?” were discussed at length.
The implementation of these functions evolves with changing art practices and the relationship with audiences. For example, development is broader than residencies, production is not limited to the artist's studio, and presentation is much more than building and communicating exhibitions.
Functions are also strongly interlinked. How do we shape these needs and opportunities around functions in the future within each organisation and how do we translate them into personnel profiles and organisational structures? How do we fulfil these functions as a sector by working in a complementary manner, collaborating or forging coalitions? How do we do this with the broader issues in mind, such as slowing down, working on long-term relationships, paying attention to those who are excluded, the influx of emerging talent, and diverse audiences?
We invite you to rethink these functions, not as fixed positions or defined tasks, but as dynamic practices that are constantly in relation to artists, audiences and society.
Programme
9.30am-10am welcome and registrations
10am-10.30am introduction by Flanders Arts Institute
10.30am-11.45am session around function 'development'
11.45am-11.50am break
11.50am-1pm session around function 'production'
1pm-2pm lunch
2pm-3pm session around function 'production'
3pm-3.15pm break
3.15pm-4.15pm dialogue session per function
4.15pm-5pm networking drink
For who?
The future-oriented rethinking of roles in arts organisations is a matter for all arts professionals, such as artists, freelance curators and art workers, employees of arts organisations with various profiles (management, curators, production, public relations, etc.), cultural centres and museums.
When and where
Thursday 19 March 2026, from 9.30am until 5.30pm at OPEK, Leuven.
The conversations will be held in Dutch.
Register now
Register via the button at the top right.
More information
Do you have questions about this event? Contact our colleagues Lissa and Dirk.
This session is organised within the framework of operating grants. Find all our advice and activities here.
Image: Anne van der Pot
