Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

Set in the charming city of Schiedam in the Netherlands, the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam is a beacon of modern and contemporary Dutch visual art. Founded in 1899, this museum has grown to become a vital cultural institution, attracting art enthusiasts from all over the world. Nestled in the historic former Saint Jacob's Hospital on Hoogstraat, the museum offers a unique blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge artistry.

The Rich History of Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

The history of the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam is as fascinating as the art it houses. Initially located in the Sint Joris Doelen, the museum moved to its current location in 1940. The building itself, the former Saint Jacob's Hospital, dates back to the late 18th century. Rebuilt between 1786 and 1789 in a neoclassical style by private architect Jan Giudici, the structure is an architectural gem. The U-shaped building, complete with a connecting chapel, exudes a timeless elegance that perfectly complements the museum's modern art collections.

The museum's journey into the realm of modern art began in earnest in the 1950s. The first curator, C.H. Schwagermann, was succeeded by his son Daan Schwagermann in 1952. Under the younger Schwagermann's guidance, the museum shifted its focus to contemporary art, particularly works by living artists. This new direction was embraced by both political and art experts, leading to the acquisition of the first Cobra movement artworks in 1954.

Exploring the Museum's Collections

The Stedelijk Museum Schiedam boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Dutch visual art, as well as a rich cultural history collection. The modern art collection includes approximately 250 paintings from notable artists such as Karel Appel, Eugène Brands, Constant, Corneille, Jan Nieuwenhuys, Anton Rooskens, and Theo Wolvecamp. These artists were all members of the Cobra movement, a European avant-garde movement active from 1948 to 1951.

Among the highlights of the collection are Karel Appel's Oerbeest and De Wilde Jongen (1954), and Lucebert's Betaille. The museum continues to expand its collection with works by contemporary artists like Henri Jacobs, Fransje Killaars, Koen Vermeule, Herman de Vries, and Marlies Appel. The collection has grown significantly in recent years, thanks to generous donations from various collectors.

The Cultural History Collection

In addition to its modern art collection, the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam also houses a cultural history collection that offers a glimpse into the history of Schiedam. This collection includes over 1,000 objects related to the city's rich history, particularly its famous gin production. These artifacts are now displayed in their own museum, the Jenevermuseum, located on the Lange Haven.

The Giudici Chapel and Exhibition Spaces

The museum's exhibition spaces are as captivating as the art they display. The Giudici Chapel, named after the building's architect, is a stunning venue for exhibitions and events. The museum underwent extensive renovations between 2003 and 2006, resulting in eleven exhibition halls, a museum shop, and a restaurant. The entrance was also moved back to its original location on the forecourt in 2014, enhancing the visitor experience.

Recent Developments and Awards

In recent years, the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam has faced financial challenges but has emerged stronger than ever. Under the leadership of Deirdre Carasso, who became director in 2016, the museum has become financially stable and doubled its visitor numbers. Carasso's efforts to connect with the local community and make the museum more accessible have been widely praised. In 2019, the museum won the BankGiro Loterij Museumprijs for the most visitor-friendly museum in the Netherlands.

The museum closed again for renovations on October 4, 2020, to address issues such as window frame rot and a drafty entrance. It reopened on May 14, 2022, with an exhibition by Zoro Feigl, showcasing the museum's commitment to contemporary art and innovation.

Visiting the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

A visit to the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam is a journey through the vibrant world of modern and contemporary Dutch art. The museum's rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse collections make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you're drawn to the bold works of the Cobra movement or the intriguing artifacts of Schiedam's past, the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam offers a unique and enriching experience.