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!
If we had to sum it up, we’d call this one inspiring, community-driven and simply gezellig. On Saturday, the doors swung open and the space quickly filled with a warm mix of familiar faces and new makers. One of them was Nino (9), who took part in the Kids Talent Room during our previous edition. At Stichting Amsterdam Street Art, supporting the development of young talent is close to our hearts. So this time, Nino returned with his very own stand. Another standout presence, or rather collective, was Psy Q & Atelier Youz. The art they brought came out of an art therapy group, and together they created something raw, wild and beautiful that added a whole new layer to the weekend.
What stood out this year was just how broad the range of work was. From Magieke Jansen’s playful hats to Bianca Prandini’s graffiti inspired prints, the mix of styles and materials gave the bazaar a steady rhythm as you moved from one stand to the next. Some makers, like Emma Grandofi, are seasoned art market regulars. Others, like Simian Switch, hadn’t shown their work in a setting like this for years. That balance made for an open, easygoing atmosphere, where visitors could meet both long-time collaborators and new voices in 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.
True to its name, it really felt like a bazaar. There was no fixed stage or set programme, things happened around you as you wandered. Vinyl DJs kept the momentum going all weekend, and artists and performers popped up between the stands. A magician drifted through the church, gathering small crowds here and there. There was live music too, with cello by Rhonda, saxophone by Solange, and a delicate set by Valentina Bruno using her wooden music box and sound cards.
Many of the exhibitors added their own flavour to the weekend. Tim and Gawa set up their light painting booth, where visitors could step in and leave with a one of a kind photo. Kiki’s face painting brought out unicorns, lions, and dragons wandering through the church. Emma de Groot offered beautiful, intricate henna designs on the spot. And between the stands, live painting happened all weekend as Simian, Subsea, The London Police and Morcky Troubles showed their skills in real time, chatting with people as their work took shape.
Pizza in one hand, Indo food in the other. There was no reason to leave the church to eat, which meant many people stayed far longer than planned. At the bar, glühwein was flowing and the bar crew kept the energy up all weekend long. Jesse held it down with his coffee bike, keeping everyone warm, awake and ready for another round. Massive thanks for the long hours. And a special shoutout to Mr. Mokum and NG BAKA, our drink partners.
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.