Over three productive days, between 21st-23rd October 2024, “Magic Carpets” platform members and partners gathered in Tartu, Estonia, to engage in a series of presentations, workshops and discussions aimed at advancing European cultural collaboration through creative residencies. The meeting, hosted by Tartu 2024 European Capital of Culture, provided an opportunity for reflection, exchange of ideas, and forward-thinking planning for the platform’s future.
The meeting kicked off with a dynamic presentation by Oliver Berg, the Tartu 2024 Programme Line Manager, who shared the latest updates on the cultural initiatives and achievements in Tartu as part of the city’s European Capital of Culture programme entitled “Arts of Survival”. He highlighted the four most important values – uniqueness, sustainability, awareness, and co-creation, which align perfectly with the activities of the “Magic Carpets” platform. His insights set the stage for discussions on how the platform can build on its momentum and continue to create meaningful artistic exchanges across Europe.
Oliver Berg’s presentation was followed by Project Manager Neringa Kulik, who shared a comprehensive update on the “Magic Carpets” platform’s activities, detailing the achievements of the platform in its current phase, including key statistical information on the impressive numbers focused on emerging talent promotion, notable collaborations and partnerships as well as audience engagement and outreach activities. She also discussed upcoming developments and strategic goals, reinforcing the platform’s commitment to fostering creativity, cultural exchange, and professional growth across Europe.
Final presenter Ugnė Pavlovaitė, a researcher with the “Magic Carpets” platform, delivered an enlightening presentation on the platform’s organisational model. Her presentation sparked a lively discussion on best practices currently in place within the platform, as well as areas that could still be strengthened. She also explored future scenarios for the platform, envisioning different formats that could better serve the evolving needs of artists and cultural practitioners across Europe. This session prompted thoughtful exchanges on how the platform can adapt to meet the changing dynamics of the cultural landscape.
Throughout the meeting, a series of workshops, facilitated by Latica Mladina, offered the “Magic Carpets” platform members and partners the chance to delve deep into the strategic direction of the platform. The sessions invited participants to reflect on the platform’s current status and the anticipated future. The discussion fostered a sense of collective responsibility and optimism, while also acknowledging the challenges ahead.
One of the most inspiring parts of the meeting were the presentations of the “Magic Carpets” residencies, completed in 2024. Seventeen emerging curators shared their experiences within the “Magic Carpets” platform, highlighting how the residencies have shaped their curatorial practices and broadened their understanding of international collaboration with emerging artists. Their presentations underscored the transformative power of these exchanges, demonstrating how the opportunity to work in diverse cultural environments has inspired new ideas and innovative approaches to art curation. Through their insights, the curators showcased the platform’s impact not only on individual artistic growth but also on the larger landscape of contemporary European curatorial practices.
As the meeting drew to a close, participants expressed enthusiasm about the future of the “Magic Carpets” platform with a shared commitment to enhancing its visibility, impact and sustainability. The discussions sparked a renewed sense of purpose, with the platform’s members and partners fully engaged in ensuring that the upcoming 2025-2028 phase brings new opportunities for artists, creative professionals, and cultural institutions throughout Europe.
The “Magic Carpets” platform continues to serve as a unique bridge connecting creative minds from across Europe, fostering cross-border exchanges and contributing to a richer, more diverse European cultural landscape. The Tartu meeting marked another significant milestone in this ongoing journey.