On 13 and 14 December, things really kicked off at the Oosterkerk on the Oostelijke Eilanden. The church’s stunning interior became the backdrop for the second edition of Bazarre Artistique. Together with Nicholas Groente & Fruit, we transformed the space into a winter art bazaar, filled with artists, workshops, music, and things to do. This edition was a little smaller in scale but all the more cosy because of it!
Saturday doors opened and the place filled fast. Artists, friends, passers by, regulars and new faces. One of them was Nino, just nine years old. He joined the special Kids Talent Room during the previous edition, created for young makers. This time, he returned as a full participant, confidently running his own table and presenting his work to the public. Another standout presence, or rather collective, was Psy-Q and Atelier Youz. The work they brought came directly out of an art therapy group. For many of them, this was their first time showing work to an audience. At first, they felt slightly intimidated by the creative firepower around them. That feeling faded quickly. It became clear they were in the right place.
The range of styles at the Bazarre was wide. From Magieke Jansen’s off the wall hats to Bianca Prandini’s graffiti driven prints, every stand had its own pulse. Some makers, like Emma Grandofi, are experienced market regulars. Others, like Simian Switch, had not touched a market stand in years. That balance kept the event open and easygoing, allowing visitors to move naturally between long time collaborators and new voices within the ASA community.
Keeping the Bazarre accessible is a key part of ASA’s mission, so we always make sure there’s more to do than just browse. Throughout the weekend, there were free activities for all ages. TonTon Club brought two arcade machines and a pinball machine, and right next to them we introduced something new: a digital graffiti wall, where people could try out spray techniques in a playful, low key way. And if that sparked something, you could join a guided stencil workshop by SAMES and make your own tote bag or T-shirt with stencils and spray paint.
As with any real bazaar, things unfolded as you moved through the space. Vinyl DJs kept the tempo steady throughout the day. A magician roamed the church, drawing small crowds wherever he paused. Live performances popped up throughout the weekend, with cello by Rhonda, saxophone by Solange, and a striking performance by Valentina Bruno, combining her vocals with a wooden music box.
Many exhibitors added their own energy to the weekend. Tim and Gawa ran their light painting booth, creating one of a kind long exposure portraits. Kiki’s face painting turned children into dragons, unicorns and animals wandering through the church. Emma de Groot offered delicate and detailed henna designs on the spot. Between the stands, live painting continued all weekend as Simian, Subsea, The London Police and Morcky Troubles worked in real time, talking with visitors while their pieces took shape.
There was no reason to leave the church. Pizza in one hand, Indo food in the other. Glühwein flowed steadily at the bar and the crew kept things moving all weekend long. Jesse’s coffee bike became a constant meeting point, keeping everyone warm and alert. Big thanks to the bar team for the long hours, and extra thanks to Mr. Mokum and NG BAKA for their flexibility and support.
To everyone who came by, shared something, performed, built something, painted, DJ’d, served, supported or simply showed up and brought good energy: thank you. You make Bazarre Artistique what it is. We’re building something together here and we’re not done yet. If all goes well, we’ll be back at the start of summer 2026 with a fresh edition. Same spirit, new stories.
See you there!
