Test location Building 50
ArtEZ is no stranger to the area. Since 2023, the art college has been present in the Spoorzone with a trial location in Gebouw50, a former Wärtsilä building. Here, students from the Art & Design, Theatre and Conservatory programmes work together on practical assignments for real clients. This location has proven how well education fits into the dynamics of the area.
The academy's relocation request is urgent. The current monumental building on Rhijnvis Feithlaan is no longer future-proof. Moreover, ArtEZ has long cherished the desire to house the Conservatory and the Art & Design and Theatre & Dance academies in one location. This offers more opportunities for mutual collaboration and leads to greater efficiency through the shared use of buildings and facilities.
Research phase
The signing marks the start of a joint research phase in which AM and ArtEZ will draw up a programme of requirements. This will form the basis for a preliminary design that shows how the academy can be accommodated in the hall and how the educational programme can be anchored within the innovation district in terms of both space and content.
Paul Guldemond, alderman for the municipality of Zwolle: ‘Creative education is an indispensable link for companies in the Zwolle region that are preparing for tomorrow's economy. The establishment of ArtEZ in the Spoorzone will create a place where entrepreneurs and students can experiment and innovate together. It is precisely this mix of perspectives that forms the breeding ground for real innovation and gives our innovation district a strong boost.’
Bob Verheijden, Director of ArtEZ Academy of Art & Design: ‘We see the Spoorzone as an environment where art, education and innovation reinforce each other. At the same time, it is important to explore this process step by step. This intention gives us the space to carefully examine what is needed to house our programmes in a future-proof manner.’
A vibrant innovation district
The plans for the Wärtsilä Hall are part of the broader development of the Spoorzone into a vibrant innovation district. Innovation districts are lively urban areas where living, working, learning and meeting come together, with the aim of stimulating innovation and economic growth. Farshad Nobakht, Project Director Spoorzone Zwolle AM: ‘The possible arrival of ArtEZ gives this a powerful boost. Education brings new energy, talent and collaboration to the area. And that is precisely the catalyst for an innovation district.’
