Space & Infrastructure · Indicator 3
Influence of informal & grassroots spaces
What this indicator asks
How important are DIY and independently run spaces for Amsterdam's cultural identity, artist careers and local scenes?
67.8/ 100 · Amsterdam
Informal events operate as a network, often using separate venues. Collectives share spaces, volunteers, audiences, and hire the same loudspeakers and equipment.
Many spaces are run in a grassroots way, but participants said it is almost impossible to be truly independent in Amsterdam. There are almost no empty spaces left where people can hold an event. For getting a space, securing contracts and assuring ticket sales are more important than having an idea.
A total of 81% of survey respondents in Amsterdam call temporary spaces important for the city’s nightlife. And 82% include places such as record shops, studios and radio stations in their evaluation.