Don’t Worry, It’s (Only) Temporary

Temporary art projects in public space have the capacity to shape, provoke thought, and transform our ideas or experiences of that space. Yet questions remain: How can such works retain relevance beyond their temporary nature and original context? How might they be disseminated in the future? What frameworks are needed to enable sustainable and collaborative practices?

Stichting NDSM-werf is organising an international conference on temporary art in public space. In collaboration with artists, curators, and cultural platforms, the event will explore and (re)imagine the potential and challenges of context-specific practices, commissioning, and the sustainable impact of temporary public artworks.

Key themes include:

• Temporary versus permanent art projects in public space
• Preserving memories and myths of temporary artworks

• Sustainability and the practical implications of temporality

• Relocating context-specific art works in public space

The conference brings together curators of biennials and triennials, directors of platforms and institutions, and artists to discuss the potential and challenges of temporary art projects in public space. Together, they will explore new ways of engaging with temporary art practices in public space at a time when sustainability is vital and resources are limited, yet the need to nurture and support emerging artists and practices remains ever-essential.

With confirmed contributions from Alistair Upton, director of Folkestone Triennial, UK; Malene Natascha Ratcliffe, director of MAPS – Museum of Art in Public Spaces, DK; Damir Stojnic, director of Industrial Art Biennial, HR; theCOLAB, UK; Samuel Saelemakers, curator of Antwerp Public Art Collection – Middelheim Museum, BE; Alexandra Landré, director of STROOM, NL; Ulrika Flink + Helen Rixrunting, curators of Bruges Triennial, BE; Christina Li, curator, NL; Marianne Wagner, curator of LWL-Museum für Kunst und Kultur, DE; as well as Afaina de Jong, NL; Studio Ossidiana, IT & NL; Lily van der Stokker, NL; Holly Hendry, UK, and more.

VIEW THE SCHEDULE OF NOVEMBER 6 HERE

6 November – Public Program: Open to students, professionals, policymakers, and artists, focusing on knowledge exchange through presentations and discussions.

7 November – Closed Working Session: By invitation only, dedicated to fostering long-term international collaboration and developing practical strategies.

Student discount:

Students can enjoy a special discount by using the code STUDENTSNDSM2025 at checkout. Please remember to bring your student card to the event.

Accessibility:

Unfortunately, the conference venue is not fully wheelchair accessible. However, the conference will be streamed and can be followed remotely. More details will be shared soon. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out, we’ll do our best to support you.

About Stichting NDSM-werf

The NDSM Wharf Foundation curates and manages the outdoor space of the former shipyard as a cultural site, placing the public character, creative experimentation, and plurality at its core. The foundation develops and presents site-specific artworks and installations in collaboration with artists, designers, and architects. More information: www.ndsm.nl

Press

For press enquiries, image requests or to arrange an interview, please contact: communicatie@ndsm.nl

The conference is supported by AFK and STROOM