Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Showcases Recent Modern Photography Acquisitions in 'New Horizons'
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is presenting a new exhibition this summer titled "New Horizons. Modern Photography at the Rijksmuseum," highlighting the institution's growing collection of modern color photography. Running from June 29 to September 3, 2023, this display features approximately 30 works by both Dutch and international photographers, including Viviane Sassen, Michael Wolf, Pieter Hugo, and Ruud van Empel. Many of these pieces are being shown for the first time, having been acquired through gifts or private funding.
The Evolution of Color Photography in Art
"New Horizons" explores a pivotal shift in photography history: the widespread adoption of color. For many years, particularly until the 1970s, black and white was considered the definitive medium for serious photography, with figures like Robert Frank noting, "Black and white are the colours of photography." Today, however, color has become the predominant form across all photographic disciplines. While a relatively recent development, color photography continues to build on established traditions. For instance, Viviane Sassen's series "Pikin Slee" from 2013 expanded the museum's representation of subjects like Suriname, moving beyond earlier 19th and early 20th-century black-and-white portraits and landscapes.
Blurring Boundaries: Art and Documentary in Modern Photography
The exhibition also delves into how the rise of color photography has led to a convergence of artistic and documentary styles, often blurring traditional genre lines. Photography remains a powerful tool for depicting human life and societal conditions. Some artists achieve this through indirect methods; for example, Henk Wildschut captures the reality of refugees in Calais by focusing on their temporary shelters rather than individuals. Similarly, Michael Wolf's views of Hong Kong's towering skyscrapers convey a sense of anonymity and scale, rather than traditional interior scenes. Other featured photographers, like Jacquie Maria Wessels with her garage still lifes, Anne Geene's structured observations of nature, and Ruud van Empel's imaginative constructed worlds, demonstrate the ongoing capacity of artists to interpret the visible world in unique ways.
The Rijksmuseum's Extensive Photography Collection
The Rijksmuseum's photography collection is a substantial archive, containing over 160,000 objects. It encompasses vintage prints, albums, photo books, and other significant works from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. The collection aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the medium's history, featuring masterpieces alongside examples from advertising, fashion, journalism, and scientific photography. In recognition of their contributions to the field, the museum’s photography curators, Hans Rooseboom and Mattie Boom, recently received the prestigious AIPAD Award 2023 from the Association of International Photography Art Dealers.
This exhibition, made possible by various forms of support including government funding, contributions from businesses, and private donations, offers a compelling look at contemporary photographic art.
For those interested in exploring more art and history in the city, Musemap (musemap.art) provides guides to local cultural experiences. Discover other museums in Amsterdam or see what else is currently on exhibition.
