International Collaboration
At Design Academy Aruba, we believe that creativity grows when cultures connect. By working with students, artists, and educators from around the world, we create an inspiring environment for learning, innovation, and cultural exchange.
International collaboration is an important part of this vision. It gives our students and artists the opportunity to discover new ideas and creative techniques, build international friendships and professional networks, develop their careers, and bring fresh inspiration back to Aruba’s creative community.
Funding Opportunities for Students
Erasmus+ and Koningsrijksbeurzen give students the opportunity to gain international experience and develop professionally. Students can improve practical skills through internships, projects, and residencies abroad. They also have the chance to discover new cultures, ideas, and creative approaches. At the same time, students can build international connections and networks, which can enhance their career opportunities and strengthen their portfolios.
Erasmus+
Erasmus+ supports study exchanges, internships, and creative collaborations with partner schools in Europe and beyond. Through this program, the Design Academy Aruba is able to connect with other design institutions, share knowledge, and provide students with valuable international learning experiences. Erasmus+ helps students gain new perspectives, develop professional skills, and engage in cross-cultural projects.
It is important to note, however, that this funding is not available for Dutch students who wish to come to Aruba. Erasmus+ primarily supports mobility from Aruba to partner institutions abroad, or for students from other countries studying at partner schools in Europe.
Koninkrijksbeurs (Kingdom Scholarship)
Koninkrijksbeurs provides students from Aruba, the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Netherlands with the opportunity to study or complete an internship within the Kingdom. This includes Dutch students who wish to do an internship in Aruba.
The program helps students gain valuable experience, develop professional skills, and build connections across the Kingdom.
Elective modules (keuzedelen)
For students who complete a six-month internship, it is also possible, in consultation with the Design Academy, to take elective modules (keuzedelen) through the educational branch of the Design Academy. These modules are equivalent to the elective modules offered in the Netherlands and allow (MBO)students to further develop their skills and knowledge while gaining practical experience.
Funding Opportunities for Artists & Designers
These funding programs give artists and designers the opportunity to gain international experience and develop their professional practice. Through residencies, collaborative projects, and workshops abroad, participants can explore new creative approaches, techniques, and cultural perspectives. At the same time, they can build international connections and networks that may lead to future collaborations and career opportunities.
These experiences allow artists and designers to bring fresh ideas, inspiration, and expertise back to Aruba’s creative community, contributing to its growth and innovation.
Culture Moves Europe
Culture Moves Europe helps artists and cultural professionals travel and work abroad. Designers, architects, and creatives can take part in international projects, residencies, and collaborations that focus on culture, sustainability, and innovation. These experiences give participants the chance to learn new approaches, gain inspiration, and build international networks, while bringing fresh ideas back to their local creative communities.
At Design Academy Aruba, we are open to interesting projects and initiatives. We see the exchange of knowledge and experiences as a valuable resource and an essential part of fostering creativity and growth.