Buro Stedelijk at Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam Prepares for New Curatorial Chapter in 2026
Buro Stedelijk, the innovative experimental space dedicated to contemporary art within the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, is set to embark on a new phase starting in 2026. This transition includes the commencement of recruitment for a new curator this summer, marking a significant evolution for the platform that has become a vital hub for artistic exploration in the city.
Buro Stedelijk's Impact on Amsterdam's Art Landscape
Launched in 2022 as a collaborative initiative by the Stedelijk Museum, Rijksakademie, and De Ateliers, Buro Stedelijk was designed to foster multidisciplinary and experimental art practices. It quickly established itself as a dynamic platform, offering a space for contemporary art, culture, and design. Initial conceptualization was led by founding curators Azu Nwagbogu and Rita Ouédraogo, with Ms. Ouédraogo taking the helm from December 2023.
Over the past few years, Buro Stedelijk has championed a diverse range of artistic expressions, from solo works by international talents to its recurring To Be Determined series, which features emerging artists. The platform has also explored new exhibition formats, such as the speculative Feminist Sci-Fi Reading Group, and built connections with both local and global artists. Through close partnerships with various organizations, Buro Stedelijk has extended its reach to include off-site events, like its annual collaboration with Keti Koti Westerpark, and public-facing projects in its Studio Space.
Rein Wolfs, Director of the Stedelijk Museum, highlights Buro Stedelijk's role as a crucial link within Amsterdam's art ecosystem, connecting studios, art schools, galleries, and the museum itself. The space operates as an independent entity managed by its curator and team, serving as a laboratory for the development of both young artists and curatorial talent. This focus on nurturing new voices is why curatorial appointments are intentionally set for a three-year term.
The Upcoming Curatorial Transition and 2025 Program
As the current curatorial appointment concludes, the search for a new leader for Buro Stedelijk will begin this summer. An independent advisory board, comprising representatives from the Stedelijk, Rijksakademie, and De Ateliers, will oversee the recruitment process, ensuring the platform's continued independence. The new curator is expected to commence their three-year term in 2026.
Before this transition, Buro Stedelijk continues its vibrant program for the remainder of 2025. Visitors can experience several manifestations, including:
- Manifestation #53: I Must Still Grow in the Dark, a group exhibition co-curated with Stephanie Noach, on view until July 17, 2025.
- Manifestation #52: To Be Determined featuring artists Dion Rosina, Thato Toeba, Razia Barsatie, and Sarojini Lewis, from August 28 to October 23, 2025.
- The Feminist Sci-Fi Reading Group with Müge Yılmaz and Anna Hoetjes on October 25.
- Manifestation #79: Museumnacht with Ndayé Kouagou on November 1, 2025.
- The final manifestation in Buro Stedelijk’s Central Space, The Belly of Momo with Kevin Osepa, opening November 20, 2025.
- A closing Publication Book Launch and After Party on November 27, 2025.
For more details on the program and Buro Stedelijk's activities, visit www.burostedelijk.nl.
This upcoming phase underscores the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam's commitment to fostering contemporary art and design. Discover more cultural institutions and exhibitions across the city on Musemap (musemap.art) by browsing museums or exploring the local map for unique cultural spots.
