Kunstberaad Eindhoven

The garden of the Van Abbemuseum will feature an iconic work of art. Which one? That's what 50 Eindhoven residents will decide together during three meetings of the citizens' council organised by the museum. The artwork is a gift to the city, which is why it is important that the people of Eindhoven have a say in the decision. What do you think is important when it comes to art? What should the work of art meet? What suits the city? This is what we are all going to talk about.  

What is a citizens' council?  

A citizens' council is an innovative way of actively involving residents in solving issues within their community. The unique feature of a citizens' council is that it consists of a drawn group of about 50 people, who collectively form a representative reflection of society. During three meetings, these participants, guided by independent discussion facilitators, engage with each other. They go out in groups in the museum during the meeting and receive relevant information from experts. This process ensures that the group will make an informed choice about which work of art will be placed in the Van Abbemuseum's garden. This creates a widely supported choice that benefits the whole city.  

Planning of the citizens' council  

In the last week of September 2024, 8,000 residents of Eindhoven received a letter inviting them to apply for the Kunstberaad. In October, it will be announced who may participate. This shortlisted group of Eindhoven residents will meet three times in November and December to decide together on the artwork that will be placed in the garden of the Van Abbemuseum.   

Frequently asked questions  

How are the participants drawn?  

8,000 random Eindhoven residents were invited to register for the Kunstberaad. This way, residents from different neighbourhoods and age groups are reached. Each letter contains a personal code that someone can use to register for the draw. A maximum of five people per household can register. Lots will be drawn by age, neighbourhood and educational level, so that a representative reflection of Eindhoven may consider the issue.   

Can I come to the meetings?  

The meetings are not open to the public. Only after confirming your inclusion can you come to the meetings.  

Do participants have to be at all meetings?  

Yes. A citizens' council produces the best results if the same participants come together all the time. It takes time to understand the issue, get to know each other, and come to a decision together.   

Are the meetings accessible to people with disabilities?  

Yes, the meetings are accessible to residents who are hard of hearing, visually impaired or require a wheelchair, for example.  

Can I join if I don't speak Dutch?

Do you speak a language other than Dutch? Then you may bring a language buddy with you.   

How much time does it take to participate in the citizens' council?

Three meetings will take place during November and December. These will take place on 16 November, 28 November and 10 December. On Saturday, 16 December, the day is expected to last from 10 to 3. The evening programme on 28 and 10 December is expected to last from 6:30 to 9. You will get lunch and dinner during the meetings.   

Do participants need to know anything about the topic?  

There is no need. Participants do not need to know anything about the topic beforehand to take part in the citizens' meeting. We think it is important that everyone from Eindhoven can help decide on the artwork.   

Where can I go if I have questions?  

For questions you can send an email to info@vanabbemuseum.nl