Upcoming Events
Stay connected with the latest arts in health events in the Netherlands, and contribute to the growth of the field! This section features upcoming conferences, workshops, and (international) online events. We update this list regularly with new opportunities to engage, learn and collaborate. This agenda focuses mainly on events in the Netherlands, so if you want to also keep an eye on opportunities around Europe, you can check out the CultureAndHealth Platform.
Are you organizing an arts in health event or know of one we should include? We’d love to hear from you, simply fill out this form. We are always on the lookout for new events to share and may feature it in the agenda.
March 27 – October 5, 2025 | Exhibition: Small Gestures, Big System | Rotterdam
The exhibition Small Gestures, Big System explores design and artistic practices that examine the current healthcare system with the aim of reimagining its future. The exhibition presents alternative perspectives on existing innovations and emerging changes in healthcare research, with the hope of restoring a sense of simple humanity to hospitals.
May 19–20, 2025 | European Mental Health Week: Mental Health Summit on Prevention and Recovery in Modern Society | European Parliament, Brussels & Online | EN
On the second day of the Mental Health Summit hosted by members of the European Parliament, cross-sectoral discussions will focus on prevention and the role of culture in promoting wellbeing. The programme will explore evidence-based strategies that integrate cultural and artistic engagement into mental health care. The discussions will contribute to ongoing EU policy debates and support a renewed call for an EU Mental Health Action Plan, with a strong focus on youth. Full agenda of the summit can be found here.
May 22, 2025 | Symposium ‘The Art of Contact’ | Amersfoort | NL
CliniClowns, in collaboration with Kind & Ziekenhuis, is organizing a symposium for healthcare professionals. This year’s theme is “Attuning with Playfulness and Care: Creating a Safe and Connected Care Experience for Children and Families.” The program includes plenary sessions, workshops, and panel discussions, offering inspiration and insights from specialists in building meaningful connections — including with children who have limited or non-verbal communication abilities.
May 22-23, 2025 | Arts & Health Event: Music and Dementia | Museum van de Geest, Haarlem | NL
Leyden Academy on Vitality and Ageing presents a two-day event on music and dementia. On May 22, four inspiring musical initiatives will be introduced, with discussions and guided museum tours. On May 23, two workshops and a symposium will explore the role of music in dementia care.
May 26, 2025 | Knowledge Café Art & Wellbeing | Amsterdam | NL
This event will explore how the arts can strengthen the wellbeing of seniors, and how participation in arts in health initiatives can be made more inclusive. Professionals from the arts and care sectors are invited to an afternoon of discussions, practical insights, and workshops. The programme features contributions from experts in the arts and health field, as well as two hands-on workshops.
June 6, 2025 | Expert Meeting ‘Music as Medicine’ | Erasmus MC, Rotterdam | NL
How to implement music in a sustainable and effective way in healthcare? This is the central question of this expert meeting for healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers to explore the use of music in clinical settings. The day includes presentations, knowledge exchange and practical examples – from the latest research to lived experiences. Whether you're already working with music or just getting started, this event offers inspiration, tools, and the opportunity to connect with others in the field.
June 12-13, 2025 | June 16-20,2025 | Knowledge Meet-Up Art & Care | Amsterdam | NL
During this meet-up, healthcare organization Cordaan invites you to explore how the arts and culture can contribute to people’s wellbeing, and discuss how Amsterdammers with vulnerable health can participate more in such initiatives in the future. The programme will feature the exhibition Choice for Art, and a series of activities including lectures, creative sessions, performances, and a party.
