ABOUT

WRITTEN BY TAYLOR BENNET & ALIA AYOUBI FROM TFB MAGAZINE

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Founded in October 2022 by Roos Koks and Marijn Stouthamer, The Creative Lab transcends the conventional notion of a pop-up market. It stands as a vibrant showcase of local creatives, offering a platform where brands, artists, and enthusiastic consumers converge to celebrate each other's talents. What began as a modest endeavor evolved into a full-fledged project, driven by a passion to cultivate connections and foster collaboration within the city's creative ecosystem. 

 

Roos and Marijn, initially driven by their own entrepreneurial aspirations, recognized a significant void in the creative community—a lack of cohesion and mutual support. Their chance encounter, born out of a shared passion for their respective ventures, ROOS Creative Lab and Marijn's Hoedjes Enzo, sparked a vision for a space where like-minded individuals could gather, exchange ideas, and engage with audiences in tangible ways. 

 

The early days of The Creative Lab saw humble beginnings, with non-ticketed markets drawing primarily friends and family. However, the organic growth of the initiative soon caught the attention of a broader audience. By the third edition, a remarkable turnout of 800 attendees signaled a turning point. Brands clamored to be part of the movement, realizing the tangible impact of The Creative Lab on both participants and the broader creative community. 

 

For Roos, the essence of The Creative Lab lies in forging meaningful connections within the creative realm. It's about transcending the confines of individual projects to create a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences. 

 

Meanwhile, Marijn finds fulfillment in witnessing the networking and collaborations that blossom at each event, likening their role to "creative cupids." 

 

As The Creative Lab gained momentum, opportunities to expand arose. Larger venues accommodated growing numbers of vendors and attendees, further solidifying its position as a hub of creativity and innovation. Today, Roos, Marijn, and operate from their own studio in Jordaan, a testament to their journey from grassroots beginnings to a prominent fixture in Amsterdam's creative scene.