Knowledge and research

Continuous investment in research and knowledge development is a central theme in Stroom's activities. We achieve this in collaboration with artists and partners, on a project basis, through digital platforms, and via various multi-year research lines.

The library is an essential part of Stroom and serves as an important research resource for visitors. The core of the library's collection consists of publications acquired in connection with our program, public art, artists, the city, and its residents. Surrounding this core, we gather material that provides context on (latent) observable developments—ranging from international to local levels—on political, cultural, social, and ecological themes. In short, everything to which contemporary art relates. We aim to ensure that our collection always offers space for diverse perspectives and evolving insights in the arts and society. Through this flexible thematic organization, we bring together current and previously collected publications in new contexts.

International Research Projects

SpaceX
Stroom is one of the partners in the European international network program Spatial Practices in Art and Architecture for Empathetic Exchange (SpaceX). The program is financially supported by Creative Europe of the European Union and collectively explores the role that networks of art and culture can play in the public domain, as well as the impact these networks have on connection, social cohesion, and equality in society. The goal is to achieve cross-sectoral and Europe-wide knowledge exchange, where researchers (academics, writers, artists, architects, curators, and critics) map out how spatial art practices contribute to public debate, opinion formation, and mutual empathy.

Islands of Kinship
Another valuable foundation for knowledge exchange is the European network Islands of Kinship: A Collective Manual for Sustainable and Inclusive Art Institutions, which takes place from 2022 to 2024. We are a partner in this exchange between different regions, using an innovative collaboration model that addresses issues such as inclusion, kinship, togetherness, and democratic exchange. This program also tackles questions about values, emotions, and environmentally friendly operations at an institutional level, highlighted through a program based on four themes.