Oude Kerk in Amsterdam Seeks Community Contributions for Kimsooja's New Textile Art Exhibition
The historic Oude Kerk, a prominent cultural venue in Amsterdam, is gearing up for a significant new art installation by internationally renowned South Korean artist Kimsooja. Titled "Kimsooja: To Breathe - Mokum," this ambitious exhibition will feature a new series of the artist's signature "Bottari" textile works, specifically designed for the Oude Kerk's unique medieval setting.
Contribute to a Unique Art Project in Amsterdam
For this upcoming exhibition, the Oude Kerk is inviting residents and visitors to become part of the artwork by donating worn clothing items. Kimsooja aims to create "Bottari" bundles that reflect Amsterdam's identity as a hub of arrival and departure, a characteristic shaped by centuries of lively migration history within this 750-year-old port city.
The artist will integrate these donated garments into her textile bundles, transforming personal stories into a collective art piece that explores themes of migration, transition, and identity. This offers a direct way for individuals to see their personal narratives become a part of a large-scale artistic statement.
Understanding Kimsooja's Bottari Series
In Korean tradition, "Bottari" refers to fabric bundles used to collect precious clothing and important possessions, often given as a gesture during long journeys or major relocations. Kimsooja reinterprets this tradition, using the bundles to symbolize broader narratives of human movement and interconnectedness. By incorporating garments from diverse cultures within Amsterdam, the project highlights the city's rich tapestry of experiences.
How to Donate Your Clothing
If you wish to contribute to Kimsooja's exhibition, you are invited to bring your worn garments to the Oude Kerk. The collection is ongoing until the end of April. Donated items do not need to be in perfect condition. As a token of appreciation, contributors will receive free admission to the Kimsooja exhibition upon its opening. Please note that all donated clothing will permanently become part of the "Bottari" artwork.
Suitable items for donation include:
- T-shirts, sweaters, trousers (preferably made from cotton or organic materials)
- Bedcovers, towels, curtains, traditional cloths, or rugs (net curtains or carpets are not accepted)
Donations can be dropped off at the Oude Kerk from Monday to Thursday, between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
To discover more unique cultural experiences like this one in Amsterdam and beyond, Musemap (musemap.art) offers an extensive guide. You can browse other museums in the city or view cultural spots on our interactive map.
