Week Two of a Five-Part Series on Self-Managed Arts Spaces. Read Part One.
In the heart of creativity, there lies an intriguing question: What happens when artists choose to come together not just to create, but to share, support, and challenge one another in the process? Artist collectives and cooperatives have been popping up in urban spaces, rural corners, and even remote regions, with the idea that collaboration can foster new forms of creativity, and often a sense of belonging. But beyond the art itself, what does it really mean to build something together? And most importantly—can these self-managed, non-hierarchical structures truly work?
At their core, artist collectives are founded on a shared belief in the power of working together. Unlike traditional galleries or commercial art spaces, collectives often reject top-down structures, creating an environment where decisions are made collectively, and everyone has an equal say. In co-operatives, the model is even more formalized, with each artist holding an equal share in the organization’s operation and success. These spaces often function outside the realm of commercial interests, providing affordable studio space, tools, and resources that individual artists would otherwise struggle to access.
The essence of these models lies in what’s known as consensus-based decision-making. Rather than a few leaders making all the choices, every member has the opportunity to voice their opinion and help shape the direction of the group. It’s an approach that is democratic, egalitarian, and, in theory, enriching for all involved. Yet, like any system, it has its complexities. The process of building consensus can sometimes feel slow and frustrating, especially when strong personalities and diverse ideas clash. Sometimes, the very freedom that makes collectives so appealing can also be the very thing that slows them down.
But for many, this slow burn is worth it. The beauty of a collective lies in its community—not just the art that emerges, but the relationships that are built along the way. It’s in the spontaneous collaborations, the shared moments of vulnerability, and the deep-rooted trust that develops when artists support each other. Collectives offer a space where creativity is not dictated by the market, but driven by the passion of those involved.
The question then becomes: how can artist collectives evolve and thrive in a world that is increasingly focused on individual success and financial gain? How can they continue to be an incubator for new ideas, a safe space for innovation, and a model for creative sustainability? These questions don’t have easy answers, but they speak to the potential of a more connected, cooperative future for the arts.
As we look to the future, we must understand that these collectives are not just working for the present—they’re laying the groundwork for something greater. They show us that the act of creating is not always about ownership or individual glory, but about sharing space, ideas, and resources to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
(This is Part 2 of a five-part series on self-managed arts structures. Read Part 3 next Monday.)