Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Establishes New Professorship for Museums, Heritage, and Religion
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has announced a new partnership with the University of Groningen to create an associate professorship focused on Museums, Heritage, and Religion. This initiative aims to deepen the understanding and presentation of history within the museum's collection and broader societal heritage.
Dr. Valika Smeulders, who currently heads the Rijksmuseum's History Department, has been appointed to this new associate professor position, commencing on October 1, 2024. The professorship will be part of the University of Groningen's faculty of Religion, Culture and Society.
This academic collaboration is designed to gather extensive knowledge related to the Rijksmuseum's holdings and the various forms of heritage passed through generations. The focus will be on expanding research into historical narratives that have traditionally received less attention.
Broadening Historical Perspectives at the Rijksmuseum
Recent years have seen an increasing emphasis on previously overlooked aspects of history, including colonial legacies, the contributions of women to society, and the origins and provenance of museum collections. The new professorship will further these studies, integrating them into academic research and public presentations.
This expansion of historical inquiry is expected to lead to new questions about the broad representation of different social classes, the dynamic between urban and rural areas, and the significant role of religion in shaping national identity. The Rijksmuseum anticipates that this academic anchoring of contemporary issues will bring fresh perspectives to its collection and overall interpretation.
The museum's leadership expressed enthusiasm for this innovative partnership, highlighting the intertwined nature of culture, society, and religion within the Rijksmuseum's collection and its mission. This development is set to foster a deeper and more inclusive understanding of the Netherlands and its connections to the world for all visitors.
To explore more cultural institutions in the city, you can browse other museums in Amsterdam or view them on the interactive map available on Musemap (musemap.art).
