From volunteer to interim director at the Amsterdam Graphic Workshop

It often happens that volunteer work eventually leads to a paid job. This also happened to Geert Schriever (66) earlier this year at theAmsterdams Grafisch Atelier (AGA LAB).A job that fits him like a glove. “The funny thing is that everything I used to criticize is now up to me to change.”His entire working life Geert devoted to the – graphic – art. He learned ‘the trade’ from the master: the recently deceasedWim Crouwelfrom Total Design. The craft fascinated him, the development of new techniques and possibilities have always been a world of inspiration for him. He enjoyed fulfilling various roles in the arts as a graphic designer, publisher, gallery owner, and collector. But as the profession increasingly involved screen activity, he missed the personal contact of the past. Because it was precisely the human interaction that always brought extra joy.

Perfect match

After a period of reflection – and caregiving – he decided seven years ago to opt for volunteer work. Geert: “Through my dedication as a caregiver, I came into contact with other volunteers and someone pointed me to Vrijwilligers Centrale Amsterdam, with its huge range of volunteer tasks here in Amsterdam. That website is fantastic, you can search exactly for the things you like or have an affinity with. That’s how I found something nice at the Amsterdam Graphic Workshop. Besides my great love for Art, Ink, and Paper, I can also find the much-missed ‘human interaction’ here. As a volunteer, I assisted artists in using our printing machines, but also did household tasks such as emptying trash cans. Additionally, I was already involved in our ‘Artists in Residence“programma.”

A maker space

“Our studio is a creative space for artists, designers, and other creative professionals from around the world who want to experiment with graphic techniques. Artists can use a variety of printing machines, such as screen printing, etching, lithography, and stone printing, for a small fee. Technical guidance is available, and workshops and masterclasses are held regularly.”

Esteemed offer

“At the beginning of this year, the previous director suddenly left for another position. When the board asked me to step in as interim director due to my expertise and experience, I was naturally honored. I didn’t have to think long about it and got to work. I am now managing the staff and volunteers and meeting artists from all over the world! After a day’s work here, I always feel energized. The funny thing is that everything I used to criticize before is now up to me to change. Much has already been improved, to the satisfaction of the team and our visitors. I am definitely appreciated for my efforts, as evidenced by the requests to stay on. Who knows, it’s already a nice compliment.”

Beautiful artworks are being created here

“The most enjoyable part of this job is guiding people and hospitality. The exchange of ideas, experimenting, and improvising make each day unique and also results in beautiful artworks. There’s a good chance that the work from the Art Rental is on your wall or what you admire in the Stedelijk Museum was made right here!”Interview: Sonja Remkes
Photos: Jackie Mulder

Want to become a volunteer?

Curious to see what there is to discoveras an artist at AGA LABor do you want to volunteer in another area to make Amsterdam a little more beautiful? All volunteer opportunities throughout Amsterdam (more than 1000)You are here.