Work Sessions

During the launch, we tackled a number of statements about CultuurNetwerk Leuven. The following points emerged:

• The role of CultuurNetwerk Leuven should focus on facilitating discussions, without initiating everything itself. There is a fear that smaller associations will be left out, as the new structure seems less accessible than the former councils. There is a need for a flexible system that arises from the sector's own needs, but where CultuurNetwerk Leuven, as coordinator, continues to call for action and encourages networking.

• CultuurNetwerk Leuven must actively work during the startup phase to create connections and reach new audiences, but in the long run primarily facilitate and support. The balance between what CultuurNetwerk Leuven does and what remains the responsibility of the city needs further development.

• Networking events and knowledge exchange remain crucial, especially now that the councils are falling away.

• CultuurNetwerk Leuven can pass on signals from the sector and bring people together, without having to take too much action itself. Success lies in a balance between facilitating, detecting, and connecting, with a self-sufficient sector as the goal.

Do you also want to share your opinion about CultuurNetwerk Leuven and/or the statements? You can do that here: https://forms.gle/JDGMUKWcMqq7pVWy8

"I hope that CultuurNetwerk Leuven gains many friends and children. That it may bloom and grow. That many new connections arise that lead to new initiatives and more involvement. And thus to more and better life in Leuven."

Open Creatives Leuven

The new platform for the cultural sector has been launched! Everyone contributing to cultural life in Leuven is included in an online, current, and organically growing database: Open Creatives. You can find the various cultural actors in Leuven, a growing overview of spaces that you can rent, a central place for opportunities, subsidies and calls, and events for the sector. Haven't registered yet? Hurry over to: https://www.cnol.be/opencreativesleuven

Are you experiencing difficulties? Is it unclear how to sign up? Come by on the open office day on February 25 from 11 AM to 5 PM at the LOV-shack (Rijschoolstraat 4, 3000 Leuven, opposite Expo Leuven). Or give a shout via info@cnol.be. Then we will help you further!

Next Steps

This year, we must collectively ensure that everyone involved in the cultural life in Leuven is part of the network and on Open Creatives. Do you think of people for whom this is relevant? Then be sure to share the website or come and pick up a card at the LOV-shack to pass on to your network.

Steering Committee: CultuurNetwerk Leuven has been officially launched and is making an open call for a steering committee of up to 8 members. We are looking for engaged people who want to shape the future of the network with us, from a balanced representation of sectors, actors, and organizations. The open call can be found on the Open Creatives Leuven platform; or at the bottom of this newsletter.

Save the date: our next sector moment takes place on April 24 and here we will dive into Leuven's candidacy for European Capital of Culture: LOV2030. Expect a clear explanation and overview of the plans, moments to provide input, and a collective closure with a networking moment.

"I hope that CultuurNetwerk Leuven does not become a top-down organization and mainly connects and acts supportively. Ideally, CultuurNetwerk Leuven is not just for polished organizations, but also for those that are a bit rougher."

"I hope that CultuurNetwerk Leuven can be a place where all sectors can have a voice. A place to share expertise, inspire, and initiate space for co-creation."

"I hope that CultuurNetwerk Leuven can come to life and flourish."