Our History

ENGAGEMENT ARTS NL was founded in 2020 in the wake of the #metoo movement in The Netherlands by a group of artists, researchers and activists to discuss the blind spots in the Dutch art scene that enabled and continue to enable unacceptable behaviour to go unaddressed in our sector.

Unfortunately, many of us know (some from first-hand experience) that there are too many examples of violence that repeatedly happen under the eyes of multiple large-scale art institutions and the legal system without proper counteraction. 

With the understanding that lobbying for change and fomenting public discussion on the ongoing issues, while providing a safe-space for survivors to address their struggles is long overdue, we have founded ENGAGEMENT ARTS NETHERLANDS. The organization was formally incorporated in The Netherlands on July 1, 2021 as a not-for-profit foundation, with funds generously provided by Rijksakademie alumni fundraising campaign “F-Razzor” as facilitated by Platform BK. The Dutch tax authorities have granted to the Stichting Engagement Arts Netherlands the charitable status of an Institution for General Benefit (ANBI) from the date of our incorporation (July 2021).

Our activities continue to be supported by fundraising, private donations and grants (when available), which are managed by the Stichting. You can contribute to our work here. All board positions are unpaid.

This project is dedicated to all the outspoken and silent survivors out there. We see you.