Art event at Dutch Embassy

News article | May 14, 2012

(Washington, D.C.) — A top modern Dutch photography and design collection featuring the works of Jeroen Henneman, Wijnanda Deroo and others will be unveiled by Ambassador Reneé Jones-Bos at a reception on May 17 at 5:30 p.m. The event will celebrate the new interior design and photography at the Royal Netherlands Embassy.

During the reception, Philippien Noordam, curator of art for the worldwide network of Dutch embassies, will lead guests on a tour of the collection.

Off the Wall

As part of the event, the Ambassador will unveil a new work of art by Jeroen Henneman in the grand reception hall of the Embassy. The work, which measures 21-by-20 feet, offers a bird’s-eye view of urban construction in a predominantly black-and-white composition that seems to jump off the wall. Mr. Henneman will discuss his thought process in creating the work of art.

“Our collection is a celebration of the beautiful art that Dutch hearts and minds can create, a tradition we have been proud of since the masters brought their graceful brushstrokes to their canvasses 400 years ago,” said Ambassador Reneé Jones-Bos. “Though the world has changed a great deal since the 17 century, the artists’ intent remains the same: to evoke emotions, offer a different aspect on life, and inspire conversation.”

Photography is an important medium in Dutch art, and it is the main form in the chancery’s collection, with works by many noted photographers, including Wijnanda Deroo and Marcus Koppen.

Furniture

In addition to photography, the groundbreaking design of established artists such as Gerrit Rietveld, Hella Jongerius and Marcel Wanders is prominently displayed at the embassy.

The works of young designers complements offices and meeting rooms. Progressive furniture design is incorporated everywhere in the embassy, from the lighting to the tables and chairs in the dining hall, and extends outside to colorful tulip-shaped chairs designed by Tord Boontje.

 Media & Press

A beautiful selection of the Embassy art you'll find in this informative online booklet.

The embassy’s Facebook page, /DutchEmbassyUS, provides a sneak peek at the collection, as well as postings by embassy staff on their favorite work of art or design. The public can also follow the discussion on Twitter @DutchEmbassyDC and #DutchArt.

Jeroen Henneman and curator Philippien Noordam will be available for interviews.

Members of the media are invited to attend the reception and should contact Carla Bundy at cy.bundy@minbuza.nl or 202-274-2632 to RSVP.

The public is invited to attend the reception and must RSVP here.