We have all entered an unwritten chapter, but we’re in it together. When Cooltsalon grew as a platform and network, it was to strengthen collaboration, solidarity and unity, and to highlight how similar we are, in fact, from city to city, country to country. We: the creative practitioners, the curators, the researchers, the producers, the change-makers, the urban dwellers.

We’re monitoring closely the updates surrounding COVID-19 and its impact on our industries, with the wish to have the planned conversations still take place on 30 May, and rolling out a fully online version seems very likely. The very concept of ‘Cooltzine’ is build upon digital interactions and streamed video elements already, so we are fully prepared to do so. Adjusting the format would allow vital discussions to still take place, and content to still be shared, while being mindful of necessary physical restrictions put in place.

We believe it is more important than ever that we work together, keep our human connections and have the means to exchange stories, advice and good practices, making us feel united and supported, especially in the creative and cultural sectors, precarious by nature.

The associated collaborative zine, “Cooltzine”, will also be released, honouring the collective effort put behind it. The print run is likely to be cancelled or adjusted to print-on-demand, and the downloadable PDF version available before the event. 

If you would like to see updates about Cooltsalon’s work and the ‘Cooltzine’ project in particular, these are regularly publicised on our website, Facebook and Instagram. We urge all our collaborators and partners to also use these channels as means to stay connected and finding the right support. We have also set-up a live document, collating available information in aid of the self-employed and the independent business owners – please add any country-specific information that you might be in possession of. 

Stay healthy.