Amsterdam
Amsterdam · Art & History Displays

Rijksmuseum Exhibitions: Art & History in Amsterdam

Explore the changing displays of Dutch art and history at this national museum.

The Rijksmuseum frequently features special exhibitions alongside its permanent collection, offering new perspectives on the art and history of the Netherlands. These temporary displays delve into specific themes, artists, or historical periods, complementing the museum's extensive holdings of paintings, decorative arts, and historical objects. Planning your visit around these changing exhibitions can enrich your experience, providing fresh insights into Dutch heritage. Always check the official Rijksmuseum website for the most up-to-date schedule and details on current and upcoming shows.

Rijksmuseum
8 exhibitions on now
Featured exhibitions at Rijksmuseum
Highlights and recommended shows in Amsterdam
Explore featured exhibitions at Rijksmuseum, including priority recommendations and high-interest shows to add to your visit plan in Amsterdam.
Framed abstract painting with sweeping violet, gray and ochre strokes, displayed on a white gallery wall at the Willem de Kooning at work exhibition.
From Oct 9, 2026

Willem de Kooning at Work Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

A retrospective exploring the artistic journey of the influential modern painter.

This exhibition documents the transformation of Willem de Kooning, highlighting his dedication and raw energy. The presentation features a curated selection of significant works that illustrate his distinctive style within the landscape of twentieth-century art.

Willem de Kooning Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of offshore wind turbines and subsea cables in a misty purple sea for the Rijksmuseum exhibition Document Netherlands: New Energy.
From Oct 9, 2026

Document Netherlands: New Energy Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

Photography and film documenting the Dutch energy transition.

Explore the physical scale of the modern energy transition through the lens of Kadir van Lohuizen. The project reveals hidden industrial sites, such as offshore wind farms and data centres, across the North Sea area.

Document Netherlands: New Energy
Close-up of an open 17th-century sketchbook showing purple watercolor wash drawings of figures on blue paper, from the Van Eeghen Drawing Book exhibition.

The Van Eeghen Drawing Book Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

Rare 17th-century drawings by artist Rombout Uylenburgh.

Discover a unique collection of preserved sketches and artistic studies formerly held by the Van Eeghen family. Explore the techniques and workshop history of Rombout Uylenburgh in this historic 17th-century drawing book.

Van Eeghen Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of Surapati, a Javanese resistance leader, depicted with a determined expression, surrounded by figures and a traditional building, symbolizing his struggle against Dutch colonial rule.

The Story of Surapati: A Javanese Resistance Exhibition Against Colonial Oppression

Discover Surapati's fight for freedom from Dutch East India Company rule.

Journey into the impactful life story of Surapati, a Javanese individual who challenged the Dutch East India Company. This exhibition explores his transformation from an enslaved servant into a significant resistance leader through historical documents.

View Exhibition Details
A purple watercolor illustration depicting a line of enslaved people walking along a shore, with a Dutch East India Company ship in the background, representing the 'Van Bengalen' story.

Van Bengalen: The History of Enslaved People at Rijksmuseum

Explore journeys from Bay of Bengal to distant colonies.

This exhibition at the Rijksmuseum reveals the compelling narrative of individuals known as 'Van Bengalen', enslaved by the Dutch East India Company. Trace their histories as they were forcibly transported to diverse regions like Batavia, the Banda Islands, and the Cape.

Van Bengalen Exhibition
A digital display of Johannes Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' with interactive zoom and pigment analysis tools, showcasing brushwork details at ultra-high resolution.
From Jan 17, 2023

Closer to Johannes Vermeer: An In-depth Digital Exhibition of Masterpieces

Explore all 37 paintings in stunning ultra-high resolution online.

Delve into the artistry of Johannes Vermeer through this comprehensive digital experience. View his entire collection of 37 works, zooming in on intricate details and learning fascinating stories behind each one.

Vermeer Online Exhibition
A watercolor portrait of a person with curly hair, painted in purple and blue tones, evoking Renaissance portraiture style.

"Remember Me": Renaissance Portraiture Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

Explore stories of identity, ambition, and beauty through historic portraits.

This exhibition delves into how Renaissance figures used portraiture to define their desired image. Learn about universal aspirations like beauty, authority, and ambition through compelling artistic examples. Reflect on how these historical practices resonate with modern self-representation.

Remember Me Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of a figure transforming into a plant, set in a museum gallery with the text 'OVID: METAMORPHOSES' on the wall, representing the Rijksmuseum's exhibition.

Explore Metamorphoses: Ovid's Timeless Myths of Transformation at the Rijksmuseum

Discover the enduring artistic impact of classical mythology.

This Rijksmuseum exhibition invites visitors to delve into Ovid's classic "Metamorphoses." Engage with powerful narratives of passion and transformation that have shaped centuries of art. Experience these influential artworks in person.

Metamorphoses Exhibition
Current and ongoing exhibitions
What you can see right now at Rijksmuseum
Browse ongoing exhibitions currently available at Rijksmuseum, including active installations and permanent displays open to visitors in Amsterdam.
Framed abstract painting with sweeping violet, gray and ochre strokes, displayed on a white gallery wall at the Willem de Kooning at work exhibition.
From Oct 9, 2026

Willem de Kooning at Work Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

A retrospective exploring the artistic journey of the influential modern painter.

This exhibition documents the transformation of Willem de Kooning, highlighting his dedication and raw energy. The presentation features a curated selection of significant works that illustrate his distinctive style within the landscape of twentieth-century art.

Willem de Kooning Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of offshore wind turbines and subsea cables in a misty purple sea for the Rijksmuseum exhibition Document Netherlands: New Energy.
From Oct 9, 2026

Document Netherlands: New Energy Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

Photography and film documenting the Dutch energy transition.

Explore the physical scale of the modern energy transition through the lens of Kadir van Lohuizen. The project reveals hidden industrial sites, such as offshore wind farms and data centres, across the North Sea area.

Document Netherlands: New Energy
Close-up of an open 17th-century sketchbook showing purple watercolor wash drawings of figures on blue paper, from the Van Eeghen Drawing Book exhibition.

The Van Eeghen Drawing Book Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

Rare 17th-century drawings by artist Rombout Uylenburgh.

Discover a unique collection of preserved sketches and artistic studies formerly held by the Van Eeghen family. Explore the techniques and workshop history of Rombout Uylenburgh in this historic 17th-century drawing book.

Van Eeghen Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of Surapati, a Javanese resistance leader, depicted with a determined expression, surrounded by figures and a traditional building, symbolizing his struggle against Dutch colonial rule.

The Story of Surapati: A Javanese Resistance Exhibition Against Colonial Oppression

Discover Surapati's fight for freedom from Dutch East India Company rule.

Journey into the impactful life story of Surapati, a Javanese individual who challenged the Dutch East India Company. This exhibition explores his transformation from an enslaved servant into a significant resistance leader through historical documents.

View Exhibition Details
A purple watercolor illustration depicting a line of enslaved people walking along a shore, with a Dutch East India Company ship in the background, representing the 'Van Bengalen' story.

Van Bengalen: The History of Enslaved People at Rijksmuseum

Explore journeys from Bay of Bengal to distant colonies.

This exhibition at the Rijksmuseum reveals the compelling narrative of individuals known as 'Van Bengalen', enslaved by the Dutch East India Company. Trace their histories as they were forcibly transported to diverse regions like Batavia, the Banda Islands, and the Cape.

Van Bengalen Exhibition
A digital display of Johannes Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' with interactive zoom and pigment analysis tools, showcasing brushwork details at ultra-high resolution.
From Jan 17, 2023

Closer to Johannes Vermeer: An In-depth Digital Exhibition of Masterpieces

Explore all 37 paintings in stunning ultra-high resolution online.

Delve into the artistry of Johannes Vermeer through this comprehensive digital experience. View his entire collection of 37 works, zooming in on intricate details and learning fascinating stories behind each one.

Vermeer Online Exhibition
A watercolor portrait of a person with curly hair, painted in purple and blue tones, evoking Renaissance portraiture style.

"Remember Me": Renaissance Portraiture Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

Explore stories of identity, ambition, and beauty through historic portraits.

This exhibition delves into how Renaissance figures used portraiture to define their desired image. Learn about universal aspirations like beauty, authority, and ambition through compelling artistic examples. Reflect on how these historical practices resonate with modern self-representation.

Remember Me Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of a figure transforming into a plant, set in a museum gallery with the text 'OVID: METAMORPHOSES' on the wall, representing the Rijksmuseum's exhibition.

Explore Metamorphoses: Ovid's Timeless Myths of Transformation at the Rijksmuseum

Discover the enduring artistic impact of classical mythology.

This Rijksmuseum exhibition invites visitors to delve into Ovid's classic "Metamorphoses." Engage with powerful narratives of passion and transformation that have shaped centuries of art. Experience these influential artworks in person.

Metamorphoses Exhibition
Past exhibitions archive
Recently completed shows at Rijksmuseum
Review past exhibitions from Rijksmuseum to understand previous themes, curatorial direction, and the museum’s recent program history in Amsterdam.
Fiep Westendorp Exhibition at Rijksmuseum: Iconic Dutch Drawings and Illustrations
Jun 19, 2026 – Sep 13, 2026

Fiep Westendorp Exhibition at Rijksmuseum: Iconic Dutch Drawings and Illustrations

Discover the visual legacy of a beloved post-war Dutch illustrator.

Immerse yourself in 150 original drawings by Fiep Westendorp at the Rijksmuseum. See how her quick, keen-eyed lines brought iconic characters like Jip and Janneke to life and shaped generations of Dutch visual culture. A family-friendly experience awaits.

Fiep Westendorp Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of a gallery scene featuring a large portrait of Medusa with snake-like hair, with a woman in a purple dress standing before it, and other visitors discussing art in the background.
Mar 29, 2026 – Mar 29, 2026

Medusa Looks Back: Women, Power and Mythmaking Talk at the Rijksmuseum

Featuring authors Janina Ramirez and Jacqueline Klooster on female historical narratives.

This discussion re-evaluates female figures from myth and history. Examine how women from antiquity and the Middle Ages were framed as monsters, saints, or heroines, and their continued relevance today. Gain insight into shifting perspectives on power and mythmaking.

Medusa Looks Back Talk
A surreal watercolor illustration of vintage photography equipment including a large format camera, darkroom chemicals, and a magnifying glass with an eye, representing early photocollages and photomontages.
Feb 6, 2026 – May 25, 2026

FAKE! Early Photocollages and Photomontages Exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

Uncover historical image manipulation from 1860 to 1940.

This exhibition at the Rijksmuseum explores around 50 historical photocollages and photomontages. See how artists used techniques like scissors, glue, and ink to create visual illusions for both humor and political commentary. Learn about pre-digital photographic manipulation.

FAKE! Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of a museum gallery featuring sculptures and paintings inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses, with classical architecture and purple hues.
Feb 6, 2026 – May 25, 2026

Metamorphoses: An Exhibition Exploring Ovid's Influence on Art at the Rijksmuseum

Experience tales of transformation through masterpieces from antiquity to modern art.

This exhibition showcases works by renowned artists like Bernini and Caravaggio, alongside modern interpretations. See how Ovid's mythological narratives continue to inspire art across diverse media and eras. Explore a rich collection spanning paintings, sculptures, and video art.

Metamorphoses Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a 17th-century Dutch home interior, featuring period furniture, a cabinet, and warm lighting, evoking daily life from the era of Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Oct 17, 2025 – Jan 11, 2026

At Home in the 17th Century: Explore Daily Life and Domestic History at the Rijksmuseum

Intimate dioramas reveal the Dutch Golden Age through personal objects.

Delve into the daily lives of 17th-century Dutch society. This exhibition showcases nine diorama displays featuring unique objects and personal stories, from the time of masters like Rembrandt. Gain a fresh perspective on historical domestic interiors and cultural heritage.

17th Century Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of an artist observing historical artworks in a museum gallery, with purple hues and swirling patterns symbolizing the exploration of the human psyche and mental well-being.
Jul 4, 2025 – Sep 14, 2025

Explore Fiona Tan: Monomania, a Unique Rijksmuseum Exhibition on Art and Psychiatry

Blending historical views of the mind with contemporary video art.

Fiona Tan's 'Monomania' exhibition at the Rijksmuseum investigates the historical imagination of the inner self. See 19th-century psychiatry and art depictions combined with Tan's new video installations, including 'Janine's Room.' Explore historical works and artifacts from the Rijksmuseum collection and notable loans.

Fiona Tan: Monomania
A watercolor illustration of a museum gallery featuring a photographic exhibition on the Indian subcontinent, with sections labeled '19th Century Colonial Images' and 'Vasantha Yogananthan's Work'.
Jul 4, 2025 – Oct 12, 2025

Crossings: Photography from the Indian Subcontinent Exhibition – Colonial & Contemporary Views

Explore photographic heritage and identity from South Asia through diverse artistic lenses.

Witness the fascinating convergence of 19th-century British colonial photographs and the insightful contemporary works by Vasantha Yogananthan. This unique presentation explores cultural identity and historical representation, offering a compelling journey through visual narratives from the Indian subcontinent.

Crossings Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a purple abstract sculpture in a garden setting, with a figure walking nearby, evoking the Isamu Noguchi exhibition at the Rijksmuseum Gardens.
May 28, 2025 – Oct 26, 2025

Isamu Noguchi: Playful Sculptures and Iconic Designs at the Rijksmuseum Gardens

An engaging outdoor and indoor exhibition featuring a 20th-century modernist.

Experience the imaginative creations of Isamu Noguchi, from large-scale sculptures in the gardens to delicate Akari lights indoors. This exhibition at the Rijksmuseum highlights his diverse artistic vision, blending Japanese and American influences. Explore his significant contributions to modern art and design.

Isamu Noguchi Exhibition
About Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam

Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Overview

Dutch Art & History Focus

ArtHistoryLocal heritage

This page offers a comprehensive overview of the Rijksmuseum, providing essential context for your visit to Amsterdam's premier national institution. Explore the Dutch masters and historical narratives before you go. Use Musemap to find other fascinating museums and cultural experiences nearby in Amsterdam.

Open full Rijksmuseum museum overview
Amsterdam

Find Current Museum Exhibitions and Cultural Art Shows in Amsterdam

A curated selection of artistic and historical programs to explore.

Delve into the vibrant world of Amsterdam's museum programs, showcasing a variety of themes from contemporary art to historical artifacts. Uncover engaging cultural exhibitions across the city's numerous venues, offering enriching experiences for all interests.

Explore Rijksmuseum with Amsterdam
Guides, visitor info, and museum details in Amsterdam
Find everything about Rijksmuseum in one place, including tickets, opening hours, current exhibitions, location details, visitor tips, nearby attractions, and the latest museum updates. Use these pages to plan your visit, discover what to see, and get practical information before you go.
Discover nearby museums similar to Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and plan your next cultural stop with confidence.
These recommendations prioritize real proximity to Rijksmuseum and help you find high-fit alternatives faster across Amsterdam.
Use this curated list to compare museums near Rijksmuseum without opening multiple search pages. Each card gives you fast visual context and direct access to key details so you can decide quickly. If you are building a full day in Amsterdam, this section helps you chain nearby visits with less planning effort.