For the 2023 edition, ICEFAT chose Amsterdam as its host city. With its rich cultural heritage, international character, and strong ties to the art world, the city provided a fitting backdrop for a convention that brought together professionals from all corners of the globe.
To design the congress and the social program for over 220 participants, ICEFAT partnered with BARENTSZEN as the local partner for the organization and execution of the event.
A congress that goes beyond content
A successful international congress isn’t just about what happens on stage.
The greatest value often arises during the conversations between sessions—when professionals share experiences, make new contacts, and brainstorm together about the future of their field.
For ICEFAT, BARENTSZEN developed a program where knowledge sharing, networking, and cultural experiences reinforced one another. The goal was not only to bring participants together around substantive themes but also to create space for encounters that contribute to long-term international relationships.
The program
Day 1 – The international community comes together
Participants arrived in Amsterdam from various continents for the start of the ICEFAT Convention. The first day focused on welcoming, introductions, and reuniting an international community that meets annually to exchange knowledge and experiences.
Day 2 – Networking in the heart of Amsterdam
After a day full of substantive sessions, the program moved to the historic city center of Amsterdam.
BARENTSZEN organized an exclusive tour of the Amsterdam canals, where participants discovered the city from the water aboard several classic salon boats. The relaxed setting offered plenty of opportunity to continue conversations and establish new contacts with industry peers from other countries.
The evening continued at the iconic Koepelkerk. Here, participants gathered for a festive networking evening featuring dinner, entertainment, and live music. In an industry where international cooperation is key, these informal moments formed a vital part of the congress.
Day 3 – Art and heritage as a connecting factor
For an organization that works with artworks and cultural heritage daily, a visit to the Rijksmuseum was a must. In small groups, participants explored the collection of one of the world’s leading museums. Especially for ICEFAT, the museum opened its doors exclusively after closing time, allowing participants to experience the collection in peace as the only visitors. The experience aligned perfectly with the sector in which ICEFAT operates while providing space for new conversations and insights.
Later in the day, the group gathered again for a program at the Heineken Experience. With a walking dinner and an informal closing, participants had one last opportunity to deepen their connections before returning to their home countries.
The result?
With over 220 participants from various countries, the ICEFAT Convention brought together professionals who work daily to protect, transport, and manage cultural heritage worldwide.
Over several days, knowledge was shared, current developments were discussed, and new connections were formed within the international network. At the same time, the program ensured that participants could meet outside the formal congress environment, strengthening relationships and fostering new collaborations.
By combining substantive sessions with carefully chosen locations and social moments, a congress experience was created that went beyond mere knowledge transfer. The event contributed to a stronger international network and underscored the importance of collaboration within the world of fine art logistics.
Creating meaningful encounters
At BARENTSZEN, we believe that the power of an international congress lies in the people it brings together.
When knowledge sharing, connection, and experience come together in the right way, something more than just an event is created. An environment emerges where ideas are shared, relationships are strengthened, and international communities continue to grow.
For ICEFAT, Amsterdam became exactly that kind of place.
Curious about how a meeting, event, or trip can contribute to new insights, inspiration, and fresh energy within your organization? Contact us and discover the possibilities!
