Rikst Westra

With a background in graphic design and a Master’s degree in Arts Policy and Management, Rikst combines creative thinking with strategic and research-based approaches. Through her work, she continuously investigates how cultural practices can make complex societal challenges tangible, participatory, and accessible. Her work emphasizes the importance of collaboration between artists, designers, institutions, and the wider community to ensure that stories and innovations are not only aesthetically engaging, but also inclusive and accessible.

Rikst’s diverse experience spans various roles, from Creative Producer at We Are Playgrounds to her work coordinating large-scale events at Avans Hogeschool. Across all her positions, one theme remains constant: her drive to push boundaries and foster environments where creativity thrives through inclusion, dialogue, and innovation. Whether managing a team of creatives or exploring new methods in design, she remains committed to making a meaningful impact on both the arts and the community.

Rikst is a creative all-rounder who, alongside her research practice, enjoys staying closely connected to the creative practice. In addition to her work as a researcher, she is active as a creative producer at We Are Playgrounds and Stichting Blocknotes. Across all of her roles, one theme remains central: her drive to push boundaries and foster environments where creativity thrives through inclusion, dialogue, and innovation.

Whether developing research trajectories, producing cultural programmes, or facilitating collaborative processes, Rikst is driven by the belief that innovation emerges through collective action, dialogue, and experimentation.