Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Expands Global Digital Access to its Collection
The renowned Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is significantly advancing its mission to share Dutch art and history with a global audience. In a new partnership with Dell Technologies, announced in November 2021, the museum is set to further digitize, preserve, and make its extensive collection universally available. This collaboration aims to enhance the digital visitor experience, striving for a quality comparable to an in-person visit.
A New Era for Digital Art Discovery
This initiative highlights the Rijksmuseum's ongoing commitment to accessibility, building on a shared goal with Dell Technologies to democratize access to culture. The project focuses on leveraging advanced technology to overcome geographical barriers, enabling art enthusiasts worldwide to explore the museum's masterpieces from anywhere.
Digitizing Amsterdam's National Treasure for the World
By 2023, the museum plans to digitize its entire collection of 1.1 million artworks, which includes one of the most comprehensive Rembrandt collections globally. This massive undertaking will be supported by Dell's robust storage solutions and other technological provisions. The digitized works are intended to be accessible in high resolution through the museum's existing digital platforms, such as Rijksstudio, allowing users to view, download, and share content freely. This builds upon the museum's pioneering efforts since 2012 to make its collection available online.
Enhancing Iconic Masterpieces: The Night Watch Project
Dell Technologies also plays a crucial role in "Operation Night Watch," the most extensive research and restoration project dedicated to Rembrandt's world-famous painting. Through Dell's storage, artificial intelligence, and machine-learning technologies, detailed scans and photographs of the artwork are being processed. This provides conservators with vital insights into Rembrandt's techniques and materials, aiding in the painting's long-term preservation and allowing the public to follow the restoration process live and in intricate detail through the project's dedicated page.
Modernizing Museum Operations and Engagement
Beyond public access and major restoration projects, the partnership with Dell Technologies has also provided critical support for the Rijksmuseum's internal operations. Dell's provision of laptops, desktops, and monitors for staff ensured that essential research, conservation work, and virtual visitor engagement could continue uninterrupted, particularly during periods requiring remote work.
This partnership represents a significant step forward in making the vast cultural heritage housed within the Rijksmuseum globally accessible, solidifying its position as a digital leader among cultural institutions. To discover more about the Rijksmuseum and other cultural spots in the city, visit Musemap (musemap.art) and explore museums in Amsterdam or browse the city map for more inspiration.
