As Platform BK we can’t repeat ourselves often enough: create solidarity and collectivise! As cultural workers, we suffer from larger societal problems, such as, but not limited to, housing struggles, fair pay, gender equality, discrimination, and racism. Whilst the understanding of the importance of solidarity is growing, more often than not artists are still portrayed as the individual in their studio. In reality, we see a plethora of active collectivising happening on multiple levels in solidarity and alongside other precarious groups. These acts of collectivising are a reaction to the larger societal problems and we find it important to amplify the artist as a collective to prevent isolation and create exchange.

We see that collective work encourages artists to find support with each other and that it challenges them to grow and reflect, to stand stronger as a group, and to make themselves visible. Furthermore, collectivising is a response to the social reality where existing societal systems are lacking or are not supportive enough. In reaction to these lacking systems we see emerging bottom-up approaches, such as setting up social insurance (broodfonds) and social security, but also in new ways of living and working. To support these efforts we want to delve deeper into the question: what does it mean to collectivise, and how do you work together? 

To tackle these questions we welcome you to Collaboration Station. Please keep yourself informed by following our website and socials.