EUNIC Mobility Days in Brussels: evaluating cultural collaboration in the heart of Europe

joulu 10, 2024 | Blog

EUNIC Mobility Days 4-6.12.2024

In early December, the Finnish Cultural Institute for the Benelux joined forces with the Liszt Institute – Hungarian Cultural Center Brussels and the Czech Centre Brussels to host the EUNIC Mobility Days 2024. Over three packed days, EUNIC members from across Europe gathered in Brussels to swap ideas, strengthen collaborations, and chart a course for the future of the European cultural network.

The themes? Evaluating impact, navigating the EU’s cultural landscape, and leveraging local partnerships for global change. Here’s how it all unfolded:

Day 1: Making a Big Impact with Small Teams

At the Finnish Cultural Institute for the Benelux’s Christmas decorated Brussels office, the spotlight was on how small teams can make a big impact. Institute Director Laura Boxberg kicked things off with a warm welcome and insights into the Institute’s mission, practices and evaluation tools. Attendees also got a sneak peek of what’s coming up for the Institute’s ongoing pARTir project, presented by our Head of Programme Malin Begström.

The afternoon featured a workshop led by the Czech Centre, where participants discussed challenges of amplifying impact with limited resources. The day wrapped with an optional visit to Galerie La Patinoire Royale Bach, where art and mingling flowed freely.

Day 2: Working in the EU capital

Day two took participants to the Liszt Institute – Hungarian Cultural Center Brussels, where the focus shifted to navigating the cultural and political labyrinth of the EU capital.

After a morning presentation on EUNIC Brussels and a deep dive into cluster governance and projects, attendees fuelled up on mulled wine and lunch.

The afternoon brought cluster representatives to the stage for rapid-fire intros, sharing their strategies, best practices, and innovative projects. The day culminated in a presentation of the Liszt institute by Director Zsófia Kovács.

Day 3: Working Locally, Thinking Globally

The Czech Centre Brussels played host for the final day, where the focus was on turning local collaborations into global successes. Director Kristýna Halounová opened with an introduction to the Centre’s work, followed by a session on forging sustainable partnerships with local institutions and creative spaces.

The afternoon included a visit to the EUNIC Global office and ended on a high note at Bozar, Centre for Fine Arts, where participants explored two exhibitions: Love is Louder and Bozar Arcade: Love and Emotions in Video Games.

The EUNIC Mobility Days were a reminder of what’s possible when cultural professionals come together: shared knowledge, fresh ideas, and strengthened networks that span the continent.

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