Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam Presents 'Things I've Never Seen Before' Exhibition from Fons Welters Donation
This summer, visitors to the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam can explore the new exhibition, "Things I’ve Never Seen Before." Running from August 2 to October 19, 2025, the presentation showcases a selection of artworks generously donated by prominent gallerist and collector Fons Welters in 2022. Many of the artists featured in this donation already have works within the Stedelijk's extensive collection.
A Legacy of Discovery in Amsterdam's Art Scene
Fons Welters began his journey in the art world after a career as an arable farmer. At 42, he established Galerie Fons Welters in Amsterdam's Jordaan district in 1985. Over four decades, his gallery grew into a vital platform for emerging artistic talent and he became a recognized figure in Amsterdam’s contemporary art community.
Welters' approach to collecting is encapsulated in his own words: "I’m always looking for things I’ve never seen before." This curious spirit guided his choices, often leading him to discover artists early in their careers, sometimes even during their art school studies. An example of his foresight is the acquisition of Gabriel Lester’s installation, How to Act, directly from the artist after its presentation at the Rijksakademie in 1999.
What to Expect at the Exhibition
The "Things I've Never Seen Before" exhibition offers insight into Welters' unique artistic vision and highlights his profound impact on Amsterdam's cultural ecosystem. The donation itself represents a valuable enhancement to the museum's collection, solidifying his legacy within the city’s art life.
Featured artists in the exhibition include Olga Balema, Thomas Houseago, Saskia Noor van Imhoff, Gabriel Lester, Aernout Mik, Matthew Monahan, Maria Roosen, Berend Strik, Jennifer Tee, Evelyn Taocheng Wang, and Joep van Lieshout. One notable piece is Evelyn Taocheng Wang’s 'A Hongkong-Dutch Client Licking My Arm during the Massage Treatment,' from 2015.
This presentation holds particular significance as Galerie Fons Welters is set to close its doors this summer, concluding forty years dedicated to contemporary art.
To explore more museums in Amsterdam or discover other cultural spots, browse the museums list or view them on the map at Musemap (musemap.art).
