ARTZUID 2025: lighting in focus

From 21 May, the leafy avenues of Amsterdam-Zuid will once again be the scene of a colourful parade of artistic statements. ARTZUID 2025 returns, with the ninth edition under the theme 'Enlightenment'. "With this exhibition we want to contribute to tolerance and brotherhood; art on the street creates a place of encounter," says director Cintha van Heeswijck.

Curator Ralph Keuning is shaping this edition. According to him, the title Enlightenment refers to the liberal spirit of Amsterdam, in which freedom, tolerance and solidarity are central: ''The title refers to the belief in progress that characterized the 18th century. A century of reason in which science and art flourished and the foundation for our democracy was laid. At the same time, there was the downside of colonialism with all the dehumanizing aspects that come with it. This paradox of progress and prosperity on the one hand and exclusion and sacrifice on the other is just as relevant now as it was then and is part of the discourse in the city, in art and therefore on the green lanes of ARTZUID 2025.'' 

More than sixty sculptures and installations can be seen this summer on the Apollolaan, Minervalaan and Zuidas. The works vary in size and material and alternate figurative with abstract and architectural work. What unites them is their focus on the mystery of human existence.

International talent and young makers

International artists such as Leiko Ikemura, Alicja Kwade, Neo Rauch, Ai Weiwei and Jaume Plensa stand side by side with young Dutch talent. In the work of Magdalena Abakanowicz, Shinkichi Tajiri and Armando, among others, the spirit of resistance resounds, as does the devastation of war. Atelier Van Lieshout shows power and powerlessness in an equestrian statue, which is associated with the Monument Indië-Nederland on the Apollolaan. 

The sculptures of young makers breathe idealism and involvement. Their work ties in with the ideas of architect HP Berlage and city sculptor Hildo Krop and invites visitors to think about the future of society. How can we build a peaceful and sustainable coexistence? 

"We can never take freedom and tolerance for granted, we must always take to the barricades for them"

Director Cintha van Heeswijck: “The reason for the current exhibition concept is the increasing polarization in the city in the anniversary year. We can never take freedom and tolerance for granted, we always have to go to the barricades for them. With this exhibition we want to contribute to tolerance and brotherhood; art on the street creates a place of encounter. ARTZUID 2025 wants to offer visitors inspiration and perspective.” 

Those following the route start at the ARTZUID Information Pavilion at Minervalaan 1. There you can find a route map, catalogue, audio tour, introductory tours, Hildo Krop tours, Artist Talks, workshops and more. 

ARTZUID 2025 is free of charge from 21 May to 21 September. View here the website for more information and all participating artists.