Lisa Alzer, alumna MA Arts and Heritage
Graduation year: 2023
What was it about this master's programme that made you think, ‘This is the one for me’?
After completing my studies at KHU and spending time working in the field, I wanted to gain deeper insight into how and why certain things are handled in the art world. The master’s programme in Maastricht felt like the right next step for me. What appealed to me most was that it doesn’t focus solely on research, but also strongly integrates a practical component that prepares students for working in the professional field. This balance between theory and practice made it, for me, the ideal choice.
Could you tell more about which minor/internship/exchange/field study you did?
For my thesis, I chose to focus on three different museums as case studies. I was genuinely surprised by how open and supportive the institutions were, even when we touched on more sensitive or challenging topics. At the same time, developing my own research focus and engaging directly with real-world institutions was not always easy and could be quite demanding at times. Still, it turned out to be an incredibly rewarding experience. It gave me the opportunity to connect different parts of my studies, bring them together in a meaningful way, and ultimately shape a project that felt truly my own.
Looking back, what are the things you learned during your studies that truly help you in your current career/experiences/personal life?
During my master’s programmme, we took a course that explored the specifics of several cultural funds in the Netherlands. It was fascinating to learn how and why these funds allocate money to cultural institutions. Gaining hands-on experience with the application process and understanding which topics are most important for securing funding was extremely helpful.
Additionally, Problem-Based Learning encouraged me to articulate my opinions and values clearly. This teaching method consistently challenged me to speak up about important topics and theories in the field. Now that I am working professionally, I see this as an extremely valuable skill to have.
Could you tell us more about your current career?
At the moment, I work as a cultural policy consultant at Cultuurslagers, where we advise cultural institutions and collaborate with municipalities, provinces, and the national government on the development of cultural policy. In addition, I spend the rest of the week working as a production leader and fundraiser at Buitenplaats Kasteel Wijlre, where I am responsible for coordinating all aspects of the exhibitions and securing sufficient funding to make them possible.
At Cultuurslagers, my work largely involves writing, meeting with institutions, and developing strategic approaches. In Wijlre, I work closely with artists and oversee the practical elements of exhibition production. These two very different ways of working are for me the perfect balance between theoretical and hands-on practice, much like the combination that originally drew me to this master’s program.
For the future, I hope to become a museum director for an amazing art museum and still do a lot of advisory work for the field.
What is your fondest memory from your time here in Maastricht as a student at FASoS?
At FASoS, I truly felt that I had found a place where I could be myself and genuinely belong. Over time, you naturally build close relationships with both your classmates and teachers, which creates a strong sense of community and trust. It may sound a bit cliché, but studying in such a beautiful environment, surrounded by like-minded people who share similar interests and ambitions, made the experience especially meaningful and memorable.
June 2026