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DNA / The New Academy - Post-academic Department

From September 2007 the Vrije Academie Den Haag has been host to DNA, a post-academic department geared towards the artist's professional practice. During a two-year working period the academy strives to give highly talented, beginning artists the opportunity to deepen and develop their artistic work and to introduce them to all aspects of the professional art world. DNA participants receive their own studios to work in (during Vrije Academie opening hours) and artistic coaching from renowned artists, curators and art critics. These professionals pay weekly visits to the individual studios and organize lectures, presentations and excursions.

DNA's main goals are to stimulate critical introspection and artistic independence. Therefore the emphasis lies on critical counselling and acquainting the participants with art institutions and their representatives. Those who wish to become a DNA participant will be assessed by means of an interview, during which the artistic quality of their work, their professional attitude, mentality and involvement are assessed. Most DNA participants already have a degree in the arts. However, this is not a strict requirement.

In total, 12 studios are available.

One-year fee: € 3.100

Please contact the Vrije Academie office for more information concerning assessment and enrolment: 00 31 (0)70 3638968 or info@vrijeacademie.org

Head of DNA: Felix Villanueva

DNA advisors:

Eylem Aladogan, artist

Stef van Bellingen, curator/publicist (Belgium)

Loek Grootjans, artist

Servie Janssen, artist

Frank Maes, curator/publicist (Belgium)

Els Opsomer, artist (Belgium)

Caterina Pecchioli, artist/art theorist (Italy/The Netherlands)