Oude Kerk in Amsterdam Reveals Extensive 2024 Program of Art and Music
Amsterdam's historic Oude Kerk, the city's oldest building, continues its tradition of serving as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting contemporary art installations and diverse musical performances within its medieval architecture. For 2024, the institution has announced a comprehensive program featuring international artists Meredith Monk, Ana Navas, and Navid Nuur, alongside a rich schedule of classical and experimental music. These projects aim to engage visitors with thought-provoking art that interacts directly with the unique setting of the church.
Extended Exhibition: Meredith Monk's "Calling"
Due to its significant critical and visitor acclaim, the retrospective exhibition "Meredith Monk: Calling" has been extended until April 14, 2024. This installation showcases the multifaceted work of New York artist Meredith Monk, spanning her career since the 1960s. Rather than a conventional retrospective, the exhibition transforms the church interior into an immersive, singing space, offering a sensory experience uniquely adapted for the Oude Kerk. The exhibition has been described as a "transitory experience" by critics, highlighting its profound connection between Monk's audiovisual art and the sacred space.
Upcoming Exhibition: Ana Navas's "A Veil as a Glaze"
From May 25 to August 25, 2024, the Oude Kerk will present "A Veil as a Glaze" by Ecuadorian artist Ana Navas, who is based in Rotterdam. This exhibition will feature a series of glass works displayed in three of the church's side chambers, utilizing a technique reminiscent of medieval stained glass. Navas's work often explores the relationship between form and function, as well as the dynamic between original and copy.
Her investigation into the Oude Kerk's history led her to the Mirror Room, where Rembrandt van Rijn registered his marriage. Navas became particularly interested in portraits of Saskia van Uylenburgh, Rembrandt's wife, specifically one depicting her as Flora, the Roman goddess of spring. Through these works, Navas delves into how forms and images permeate collective memory and the intertwining themes of power and women's identity.
A Century-Long Project: Navid Nuur's "When Doubt Turns into Destiny"
Iranian-Dutch artist Navid Nuur will unveil a new, large-scale, context-specific exhibition titled "When Doubt Turns into Destiny," running from September 7, 2024, to February 9, 2025. This installation promises an immersive, sensual experience, engaging visitors with elements of earth, water, air, scent, form, and touch. Nuur's work invites reflection on human existence and our transient nature within the world.
A distinctive aspect of Nuur's project involves a process that will extend for a century. Starting in 2024, Nuur will craft 100 vases using clay blended with soil and debris gathered from across Amsterdam. These vases will be stored in the Iron Chapel, which historically served as the city's vault. Annually, one vase will be exchanged in return for a contribution. The exhibition will only reach its full conclusion in 2125, when all 100 vases have left the church, leaving a message from Nuur for future generations.
Rich Musical Program and Public Events
Beyond its visual art exhibitions, the Oude Kerk maintains a robust program of contemporary and historical music. The monthly "Silence" morning concert series continues to feature forward-thinking musicians, with performances by artists such as UpSammy and Vernon Chatlein. The church also continues its collaboration with the Sonic Acts Biennial and Dekmantel Festival, bringing acclaimed artists like Charlemagne Palestine and Kali Malone to its unique acoustic setting. The "Monuments" series will also highlight tradition and innovation in organ culture.
Complementing these programs, the Oude Kerk hosts various public events throughout the year, including a Saskia Breakfast, Queer History Month activities, a Liberation Day Organ Afternoon, and events coinciding with the "Wallen Festival" and Amsterdam's 750th anniversary.
The Oude Kerk in Amsterdam remains a dynamic space where the city's rich history meets contemporary artistic expression, offering visitors a unique cultural experience. To discover more about the artistic and cultural landscape of Amsterdam, explore other museums in the city or browse the full range of experiences on the Musemap art discovery platform.
