As Within, So Without: An Exhibition on Dutch Post-War Interior Design and Nature

This exhibition journeys through the history of post-war Dutch living rooms, exploring the significant role of plants and how interior design and our relationship with nature evolved alongside cultural and social developments from the reconstruction era to the 1970s. It features work by artists Inge Meijer, Dongyoung Lee, Gökhan Aksoy, Don Yaw Kwaning, and Miao Li, examining themes of human-nature relationships in urban environments.

The exhibition 'As Within, So Without' (Zo Binnen, Zo Buiten) offers a contemplative exploration of mid-20th century Dutch domestic life, with a particular focus on the nuanced presence and significance of houseplants. It traces the interconnectedness of interior design choices and societal shifts, from the post-war reconstruction period through the influential emancipation movements of the 1960s and 70s. Inge Meijer, an artist renowned for her work on human-nature dynamics, drew inspiration from the archives of 'Goed Wonen' magazine (1946-1980). In collaboration with graphic designer Dongyoung Lee, she adopted the visual language of this era to reflect evolving ideas about interiors and the permeability between indoor and outdoor spaces. The Van Eesteren Pavilion itself, designed by Korteknie Stuhlmacher Architects, provides a fitting backdrop with its blend of sustainable materials and modernist principles, creating a dialogue between historical context and contemporary relevance. This is further amplified by a newspaper installation on the museum's windows, prompting visitors to consider how historical perspectives on nature and culture continue to shape our present. The exhibition also incorporates a sound installation of the poem 'Zo binnen, Zo buiten' by poet and performer Gökhan Aksoy, inspired by the visual works. Additional contributions include material experiments by artist and designer Don Yaw Kwaning, who explores urban coexistence with nature through plant-based materials, and sculptures by artist Miao Li, which visualize the intricate connections between subterranean ecosystems and urban structures. Together, these elements highlight how concepts of interiors, architecture, and the presence of plants have transformed over time, inviting visitors to understand how our homes and their botanical inhabitants offer narratives of their era and societal evolution.

Information regarding visiting the exhibition can be found on the museum's website. The exhibition is housed within the Van Eesteren Pavilion, and visitor access details are likely integrated with general museum admission or event policies.