Finding connection through creativity: Amateur Arts Day

Bringing people together through art 

For Marjo Gorter, the main goal of Dag van de Amateurkunsten is simple: connection. ‘The idea behind it is to bring society a bit closer together,’ she explains. ‘People can get to know each other through the arts. In this way, we create more enjoyment and connection.’ Instead of hiding creative activities inside buildings, the organisers want art to be visible in public spaces. Stages, workshops and performances are spread throughout the city centre so that people can discover them naturally while walking through town. ‘You shouldn’t ask people to go looking for art,’ says Marjo. ‘You should simply be where the people are.’ This open approach is especially important in a city like Maastricht, where people from many cultures and backgrounds live side by side.

A festival for everyone 

One of the strongest messages from Marjo Gorter and Wim Bogaert is that the festival is for everyone. One does not need to be a professional artist to take part. In fact, the event exists to give amateur artists a chance to be seen. ‘There are so many amateurs who aren’t seen enough,’ Marjo says. ‘This festival gives them a stage. Anyone can take part.’ Wim agrees that the word “amateur” can sometimes be misunderstood. ‘People often think amateur means lower quality, but that’s not true,’ he explains. ‘Many participants perform at a very high level. They simply have fewer hours to devote to it than professionals.’ The organisers also want younger people to feel included. Alongside traditional choirs and music groups, the programme includes DJs, bands, dance groups as well as photography projects and workshops. 

‘We wanted to involve young people,’ Wim says. ‘Many young people today carry out their creative projects on their own. We want to show them there is also a community around creativity.’

Feeling at home in a new place 

Marjo and Wim are of the opinion that creativity can help people settle into a new city or country. ‘Creativity is something we all need,’ says Marjo. ‘It makes us feel freer inside. You create something of your own and bring it into the world.’ Wim adds that creative groups can also provide a sense of belonging. ‘When you join a group of like-minded people, everyone already shares the same central interest,’ he says. ‘That makes it easier to connect with your surroundings.’ This is particularly important in the Maastricht Region, an area becoming more well-known for its international atmosphere. According to Wim, the city of Maastricht has a unique character. ‘It’s not a typical Dutch city,’ he explains. ‘There are influences from Belgium, Germany and many other places. Maastricht has its own culture and personality.’ The organisers hope the festival will reflect this diversity more strongly in the future. ‘We know Maastricht is a city with many languages and many international people,’ says Wim. ‘We want them to feel at home here too.’

The importance of volunteers and local organisations 

Events like Dag van de Amateurkunsten depend heavily on volunteers and local associations. Last year, around 150 volunteers helped organise cultural activities, guide visitors and support performances. ‘We can’t do it without volunteers,’ Wim says. ‘They are essential.’ Local clubs and organisations also play a major role by opening their spaces, sharing their knowledge and welcoming new people. 

For internationals who want to become more involved in the Maastricht Region, volunteering at cultural events can also be a valuable experience. It offers the chance to meet people, practise language skills and contribute to the community.