Site Specific Art and Performances in Public Space
Experience the transformative power of art in public spaces with CULT Foundation
CULT Foundation is a Public Benefit Organization and registered in The Netherlands with ANBI status
Strengthening Europe’s Cultural Identities
.....through Research, Education and Projects in Public Space
Ingrid van Engelshoven: Strengthening culture is essential to sustaining a resilient democracy
Some of our projects
BUILDING SCENES
Temporary structures housing temporary performances by theater makers, dancers and musicians stimulated social cohesion and sparked discussion about the quality of public space.
Building Scenes, Rotterdam (1996), showcased the possibilities of a more open environment in the Museumpark.
CHANGE OF ATMOSPHERE
A performance in which climbers untie the meters-long fabrics on the façade, creating space for a choir singing to the people on the city square from the balconies.
Colored light changing the environment of the river Amstel.
MANIFESTO
Exploring the possibilities for site-specific art in public space.
The need, the importance, the necessity. The scale, the spectrum.
YCITY
A plan for flooding public play areas, Amsterdam IJburg, 1999.
Movable public space was still unknown in the last century, and even now, new urban development areas lack the public amenities required for growing up youth.
OASE
In 2012, the municipality of Amsterdam launched a competition for a temporary building in the Zuidas, the office district along Amsterdam’s ring road.
The winning design was OASE, an urban camping at a six level open green building.
The facade of the Van Gogh Yellow House at Arles France rebuilded.
Relive the view from Vincent’s bedroom.
Coming Soon
Future projects reflecting our commitment to creativity, innovation and excellence.
Voices
autumn 2026
A huge collage of 720 virtual flags to celebrate the unity in diversity and inclusivity of European cultures.
2028
Rebuilding Scenes is an event that, by bringing together architects, artists, and governments, highlights the importance of cultural components in reconstruction.
Rebuilding Scenes
Connecting cultures
2027
Ten European university cities exchanging ideas on improving cultural interaction within the municipality.
Water levels are rising.. The importance, power and possibilities of water in our built environment.
Flooding
2029
The Value of Culture
Geert Boogaard – Blueyard – and Ingrid van Engelshoven, former Minister of Education, Culture and Science in The Netherlands in the newspaper De Volkskrant 26/11/2025:
… culture is a fundamental pillar of democracy and should therefore receive greater political attention and investment.
The authors note that government funding for culture in the Netherlands has steadily declined over recent decades, weakening the sector and placing the country behind other European nations. Contrary to common assumptions, reduced public funding has not been offset by private contributions; instead, less public investment leads to less private support.
The text emphasizes that the arts, media, and cultural institutions are not decorative additions to democratic society but essential components that enable imagination, dialogue, and critical reflection. Cultural expressions such as literature, film, visual art, and performance broaden perspectives, challenge power, and strengthen social cohesion. Cultural education and participation are presented as training grounds for active citizenship.
The authors warn that democratic backsliding often begins with limiting artistic and cultural freedoms, as seen in various autocratic contexts. Protecting democracy therefore requires strengthening the financial and legal framework for culture. They propose measures including increased national investment, legal obligations for regional governments, improved access to cultural spaces, embedding cultural education in schools, lowering barriers to participation, and safeguarding artistic independence.
Their conclusion: “..in a time of societal crises and polarization, the answers are not only technical or political but also cultural. Strengthening culture is essential to sustaining a resilient democracy”.
Check out our FAQs for more information.
What services do you offer?
We offer a range of art and culture projects in public spaces.
We are working on an education programma to make a younger generation aware of the qualities of public space and the opportunities it offers for social interaction and the exchange of knowledge and culture.
Our goal is to strengthen European cultural identities and make art accessible to everyone.
Who can participate in your projects?
Our projects are open to anyone who is interested in exploring, exposing, and experiencing art in public spaces.
We encourage a diverse and inclusive audience.
Why are art projects important?
Art projects have the power to bring people together, spark creativity, and celebrate cultural diversity.
They also contribute to the beautification and revitalization of public spaces.
Ready to bring art to public spaces?
Do you have a passion for showcasing art in public spaces and making a positive impact?