New Olafur Eliasson Installation Set to Transform the Restored ARTIS Aquarium in Amsterdam
A major new art commission is coming to Amsterdam’s historic zoo. This autumn, the internationally acclaimed artist Olafur Eliasson will unveil a site-specific, multisensory installation within the newly restored Aquarium at Artis. Designed for the building's monumental rotunda, the artwork will offer visitors a rare opportunity to connect with the mysteries of the deep sea.
The highly anticipated installation is scheduled to open to the public on October 3, 2026.
Experiencing "Deep seeing currents" inside the Aquarium
Titled Deep seeing currents, Eliasson's creation is designed to transport visitors into a realm that remains largely unreachable to humans. The installation relies on sensory deprivation and stimulation to evoke the physical sensation of being deep underwater.
As visitors enter the rotunda, they will find themselves surrounded by darkness and an immersive soundscape of marine life. This includes recordings of whale songs, the deep rumblings of hydrothermal vents, and subtle human-made sounds. These low-frequency vibrations are designed to be felt throughout the body, mimicking the intense pressure of the deep ocean. Overhead, dynamic light patterns will drift downward, mimicking "marine snow"—the organic particles that sustain life in the ocean depths.
By limiting visual sight, the artwork encourages visitors to engage their other senses, creating an intimate connection with this fragile and unfamiliar ecosystem.
The Renewal of a Historic Amsterdam Landmark
This installation marks a significant moment for the ARTIS Aquarium. First opened in 1882, the historic building is one of the oldest aquariums in the world. After a comprehensive, multi-year restoration project, the national monument officially reopened its doors in June 2026.
The updated venue is designed as a contemporary space where science, architecture, and art meet. Rather than just showcasing marine life, the Aquarium highlights the essential connection between water, humanity, and the natural world. Eliasson's sensory installation adds a modern artistic layer to this historic venue, emphasizing the environmental importance of our oceans.
If you are planning a trip to experience the new installation and explore the rest of the grounds, you can find up-to-date ticket details and daily opening hours directly on the official ARTIS platform.
For those looking to discover more cultural highlights and events across the city, Musemap (musemap.art) helps you curate your perfect itinerary. You can easily browse museums in the area, check out what else is on with our list of local exhibitions, or explore the neighborhood using the interactive city map.
