Allard Pierson Museum Acquires Original S1ngle Comic Art in Amsterdam
The Allard Pierson Museum in Amsterdam has significantly expanded its collection of Dutch comic strip heritage with the acquisition of original drawings from the popular "S1ngle" series. This substantial addition includes thousands of artworks that chronicle daily life, relationships, and friendships in a relatable, often humorous, style. The acquisition marks a notable moment for the museum's role in preserving contemporary Dutch cultural narratives.
Expanding the Allard Pierson's Dutch Comic Collection
The new acquisition comprises approximately 7,000 original drawings from the "S1ngle" comic strip. These artworks will be annually supplemented with new material, ensuring the collection remains current. This addition strengthens the Allard Pierson's dedicated archive of Dutch comics, which already includes significant works from creators such as Jan Kruis ("Jan, Jans en de kinderen"), Gerrit de Jager ("De familie Doorzon"), and Peter van Straaten ("Vader & Zoon," "Dagelijks leven"). Together, these collections offer a satirical yet insightful look into Dutch society over the past five decades, reflecting evolving perspectives on everyday experiences.
Exploring the World of S1ngle
Created by Hanco Kolk and Peter de Wit, "S1ngle" began its daily run in 2000, appearing in publications like Het Parool. The comic centers on the lives of three friends, Nienke, Fatima, and Stella, all of whom work in a hospital setting. In 2013, a fourth character, Floor, was introduced, her name chosen through a reader poll, reflecting the strip's engagement with its audience. The storylines typically revolve around universal themes such as the search for love, workplace dynamics, and the complexities of friendship. Both creators have individual notable careers; Kolk is known for "Meccano," and De Wit for "Sigmund," which has been published in De Volkskrant since 1994. The popularity of "S1ngle" also led to a television series adaptation, broadcast on Net-5 in 2008, starring actresses including Katja Schuurman, Bracha van Doesburgh, and Eva van der Gucht.
This acquisition enriches the Allard Pierson Museum's offering, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the visual storytelling that captures the essence of modern Dutch society. For those interested in exploring more cultural highlights or current exhibitions in Amsterdam, Musemap (musemap.art) provides comprehensive guides and a map to discover local museums and other cultural spots across the city.
