Placemaking Week Europe 2024 is set to unfold in the vibrant city of Rotterdam from September 24th to 27th and promises to be a dynamic convergence of minds and talents dedicated to transforming urban spaces. This year’s theme is - "Local Power & The Battle for Space," which captures the essence of the challenges and opportunities that our cities are facing today.
The festival will host an array of activities, from informative sessions to engaging workshops and inspiring keynote speeches, across various locations in Rotterdam. One of the highlights is the innovative panel discussion titled "Building Cities with Artists and Creativity," which merges diverse sessions into a single powerful narrative. This panel will explore how creative endeavours, and local insights can profoundly shape the urban landscape, making cities not only more liveable but also uniquely vibrant.
Our co-founder and director, Mr. Andrew Coward, will be joined by an esteemed panel including Tiffany Fukuma, Managing Director of Trans Europe Halles, a cultural network known for supporting grassroots arts centres in repurposed buildings across Europe; Jeanne Varaldi, a French visual artist and urbanist renowned for her innovative work that blends urban planning with artistic expression; and Matthew Gollan, Associate Director at WSP UK, specializing in Liveable Places.
The 75-minute panel, promising a robust Q&A segment, will encourage active audience participation. As creativity and art take centre stage, the discussion aims to highlight the instrumental role artists and planners play in placemaking, bringing to life the textures of the city through their unique lenses.
As Placemaking Week Europe 2024 approaches, it not only anticipates celebrating the transformative power of placemaking but also looks forward to fostering a broader network of placemakers. With Rotterdam’s well-connected transport system and a variety of accommodations, the city is all set to welcome thinkers, planners, and creators from across the globe.