Amsterdam
Completed

Spelen in Nieuw-West: An Exhibition Exploring Play and Urban Identity in Amsterdam's Nieuw-West

This cultural attraction delves into how planned green spaces and community engagement have shaped local life and recreation.

The 'Spelen in Nieuw-West' exhibition at Van Eesteren Museum thoughtfully examines the profound role of play in defining the character of Amsterdam Nieuw-West. Visitors can engage with diverse personal narratives, spanning historical accounts to contemporary experiences, illustrating how the district's architecture and public spaces were intentionally designed to foster activity and community. Discover the legacy of urban planners and the evolution of play, from early childhood games to modern trends.

About Spelen in Nieuw-West at Van Eesteren Museum in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Spelen in Nieuw-West at Van Eesteren Museum in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

This exhibition explores the significance of play in shaping the identity of Amsterdam Nieuw-West, showcasing personal stories from residents past, present, and future. It highlights how the district's design, with its ample green spaces and planned play areas, has always encouraged activity and community.

Curatorial context

Spelen in Nieuw-West delves into the profound role that play has played and continues to play in defining the character of Amsterdam Nieuw-West. The exhibition features personal narratives from local residents, spanning from historical accounts to contemporary experiences and future perspectives, all centered around the theme of play. It illustrates how the district's broad streets, green parks, and open spaces were intentionally designed to foster movement and play, particularly for children. The exhibition draws on the legacy of urban planners like Jakoba Mulder and architects like Aldo van Eyck, whose designs for playgrounds and public spaces continue to influence the district. Visitors can expect to encounter a mosaic of stories and objects, from memories of playing with tricycles in the 1950s and 60s, to experiences with computer games in the 1990s, and the contemporary 'Hiddenbody' movement near the Sloterplas. These diverse elements weave together to form a rich tapestry of the shared heritage of Nieuw-West, emphasizing its green spaces, unique playgrounds, and the Sloterplas as central hubs for play, relaxation, and social interaction. The exhibition was developed in collaboration with neighborhood residents through various community engagement activities.

Admission and ticket notes

The page does not provide specific ticketing information for the exhibition. It is likely that admission is covered by general museum entry, but this is not explicitly stated. Visitors are directed to explore 'Stories from Nieuw-West' on the museum's website for further details related to the exhibition's content.

Spelen in Nieuw-West key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Spelen in Nieuw-West at Van Eesteren Museum in Amsterdam

Venue
Van Eesteren Museum
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Jul 20, 2023 – Sep 3, 2023
Artist line / attribution
Curators: Mijke Tonnon & Siir Duran. Spatial design by Mijke Tonnon. Graphic design by Kylièn Bergh.
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