Kosmopolis was created in times of serious social unrest. The storm may have calmed since, but the damage is obvious. After all, it has become clear that sections of the population have given each other the cold shoulder. As stereotypes are gaining strength, direct contact between these groups are becomming rare. It is Kosmopolis’ duty to take action against this development.
Kosmopolis is an unconventional platform that nourishes a profound dialogue between communities through art and culture, both nationwide and in an international context. However, it does not just aim at the discourses between ethnic groups, for it also includes encounters between young and old citizens, inhabitants of regions and cities, worshippers and nonbelievers.
To create an impact on influencial networks and large audiences, Kosmopolis is truly media-driven. It applies a continuous stream of imaginative perspectives, trenchant choices and new insights.
The platform is both virtual and tangible, and thoroughly genuine while emerging into various shapes. Kosmopolis brings people together who may not easily meet otherwise, within settings that are hospitable and engaging. It is catching and knows how to promote intelligence, as well as tracing and utilizing art for the purpose of transforming established worldviews.
A lot of interesting initiatives are thriving in the Netherlands. However, by far the biggest part is not visible at all. Kosmopolis wishes to unlock networks, e.g. through web applications that extend entries to cultural diversity in the arts. The loopholes Kosmopolis comes upon will be completed with it’s own programming. On the principle that one shall not rise without sharing, the platform will distribute all knowledge, while encouraging others to do so as well. Kosmopolis is not a fund, since it pulls together and works with cultural institutions, as it gives assignments.
Many partners, networks and friends, both home and abroad, share Kosmopolis’ mission. Therefore, it collaborates with European partners who also exert the effort of deepening the intercultural dialogue. Cooperation is not a goal as such, but a means to create exceptional and multidisciplinary programmes that activate, innovate and deepen this dialogue.
Kosmopolis has penetrated the four largest migrant groups in the Netherlands and accomplishes an enduring interchange of art and knowledge. Cultural exchange with the Middle-East and the Maghreb will be employed to examine the current views of these regions and populations, as well as to introduce new perceptions.
Kosmopolis wants to change existing opinions for the purpose of serving the citizens of a new world – a world in which boundaries are diminishing, given that it is no longer obvious that identities can be traced to national, cultural, religious or ethnic lines.
