Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam Unveils 'The Great Indonesia Exhibition'
De Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam's Dam Square is set to open a significant new exhibition, "The Great Indonesia Exhibition." Launching on Saturday, October 21, 2023, this extensive presentation offers a comprehensive look at Indonesia's history and diverse cultures, aiming to provide a contemporary perspective on the world's largest archipelago. The exhibition will run for six months, concluding on Monday, April 1, 2024.
This exhibition distinguishes itself by presenting a broad narrative that spans centuries, moving beyond specific periods or art-historical themes often seen in previous shows. It seeks to fill gaps in general understanding, addressing a story that frequently receives insufficient attention in Dutch education.
Exploring Centuries of Indonesian Culture and History
Visitors will embark on a journey through Indonesia's eventful past, from the zenith of the legendary Majapahit Empire to the complexities of colonial rule, the struggle for independence, and the formation of the republic under Sukarno. The narrative continues through the Suharto era and into present-day Indonesia, highlighting both its promises and challenges. The exhibition serves as an homage to the immense cultural diversity that has defined the archipelago for centuries, presenting a polyphonic biography that incorporates both known and overlooked facets, diverse viewpoints, and traumatic experiences.
Through hundreds of objects and countless stories, the exhibition paints a vivid picture of this long history. Personal accounts and interpretations are provided by representatives from various communities in both Indonesia and the Netherlands, ensuring a platform for new stories and previously suppressed histories. The ongoing dialogue surrounding shared yet sometimes divisive pasts resonates throughout the presentation.
A Rich Collection of Artifacts and Contemporary Art
Over 300 objects will be on display, encompassing a wide range of categories. These include centuries-old archaeological discoveries, sculptures, historical documents, and examples of applied art, alongside masks, wayang puppets, textiles, jewelry, and fashion items. The exhibition also features paintings, photographs, and films, sourced from dozens of museums and private collections. Notable contributions come from Dutch institutions such as the Wereldmuseum, the National Archive, the Rijksmuseum, and the NIOD Institute for War, Holocaust and Genocide Studies.
A central element of the exhibition is an extensive collection of contemporary art from Indonesia. These chosen artists engage with modern themes like gender and climate change, often utilizing traditional techniques in their work. Featured artists include Alfiah Rahdini, Citra Sasmita, Eko Nugroho, FX Harsono, Heri Dono, and Timoteus Anggawan Kusno, among others.
Unearthing Shared Histories: From VOC to Modern Indonesia
The exhibition begins with an introductory lecture, leading visitors into the vibrant and multifaceted world of Nusantara, the historical name for what is now Indonesia. It explores the region's stunning natural environment and biodiversity, as well as facing current challenges like pollution and deforestation. Further sections delve into ancient empires, their long histories of trade, world religions, and legendary dynasties, alongside insights into death rituals and ancestor worship within diverse communities.
A significant portion of the exhibition covers the Second World War, the Revolution, and the nascent Republic of Indonesia, depicting this tumultuous struggle for independence with a compelling layout. It also examines resistance against Dutch oppression, tracing its roots far earlier than the revolutionary period and shedding light on various resistance fighters and the rise of nationalism. The shared history between Indonesia and the Netherlands is central, from the arrival of the first Dutch sailors under the United East India Company (VOC) in the sixteenth century to the nineteenth-century conflicts where the Dutch violently extended their power. The exhibition particularly highlights the largely unknown fact that hundreds of thousands were enslaved during Dutch colonial rule in the East.
The final theme brings the focus to contemporary Indonesia, giving voice to the younger generation and their aspirations for the country's future. Surrounded by the works of contemporary artists, visitors can explore reflections, criticisms, and hopeful prospects for modern Indonesia. In collaboration with writer Reggie Baay, De Nieuwe Kerk has developed a special guided tour dedicated to the history of slavery in the East, available for both educational groups and general visitors.
Planning Your Visit to De Nieuwe Kerk
"The Great Indonesia Exhibition" provides an immersive cultural experience for anyone interested in a deeper understanding of Indonesia's rich heritage and its complex relationship with the Netherlands. The exhibition runs from October 21, 2023, to April 1, 2024. An extensive program of accompanying events, including evening talks with authors like Reggie Baay, Thom Hoffman, and Dido Michielsen, will be organized throughout its duration.
For those planning to visit De Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam, tickets can be purchased online. To discover more cultural experiences in the city, you can browse other museums in Amsterdam or explore the local cultural landscape on the Musemap interactive map.
