Pillar 2:
Ecological transition in the field of culture

Priority 16:
Increasing citizens’ participation in developing and implementing cultural policies

Work in Progress (WiP) is a meeting place for young people aged 16 – 25 who need support in taking the step from being ‘hobby creatives’ to becoming professional cultural practitioners. At WiP, participants gain access to local and international networks, can become part of a creative community, receive coaching in their artistic journey, and are offered opportunities to showcase their work.

WiP is a new project that has been developed by young people themselves, with process support from the city’s Department of Culture following a two-year feasibility study. The target group has, through conversations, workshops, horizon scanning and youth surveys involving nearly 1,000 young people, been able to articulate their needs and wishes for what a cultural meeting place should look like. Now that WiP has opened, young people continue – together with staff – to shape and develop the venue, from the vibe and interior design to the creation of events and programme content.

While WiP is located in a cultural centre focusing on youth and young adults, it is also part of the Embassy of Sharing, a mixed-use development estate that emphasises environmental and sustainable practices. This is reflected, for example, in the interior design, which is 90% recycled, as well as in planned events that highlight sustainability within cultural life in Malmo.