Seen it all before have you? Think again. En route Sculpture is no ordinary sight. It is part of Amsterdam’s outdoor art scene. This city embraces art in every corner. Even on its streets.
En route Sculpture is part of the ARTZUID. It is the Amsterdam Sculpture Biennale. ARTZUID occurs every two years. It transforms the city into an open-air gallery. This started back in 2009 by local residents.
The goal is to promote art. It also highlights Amsterdam School architecture. This style is from the early 20th century. It features detailed facades. Look for decorative ironwork and stained glass.
The exhibition route spans 5 km. It features around 60 artworks. These pieces are along Apollolaan. You will also find them on Minervalaan and Churchilllaan. These leafy avenues form the heart of the exhibition.
Each ARTZUID edition has a curator. The curator selects sculptures based on a theme. Past curators include Rudi Fuchs and Henk van Os. They also include Jan Cremer and Jasper Krabbé.
Rudi Fuchs called ARTZUID unique. He said it is the only biennial focused on outdoor sculpture. A public space exhibition makes art accessible. Everyone can enjoy it.
In 2013, the route was 2.4 km long. It went across Apollolaan, Zuidas, and Minervalaan. One year, Henk van Os picked 60 sculptures. These were by internationally renowned artists. The works provoke thought. Some resonate deeply.
Some past sculptures include “Exodus.” It is by Jem Robert Koko Bi. These wooden carvings represent deportation during slavery. “Holy Land” by Kader Attia features reflective sculptures. They invite contemplation.
Another piece by Jem Robert Koko Bi is “Mandela 27,000 pieces of life history.” This tells of Mandela’s prison years. Tom Sachs created a “Miffy Fountain.” It symbolizes consumerism. It shows Miffy crying against commercialization.
Joep Lieshout made “Wellness Skull.” It reflects on beauty expectations and mortality. Erwin Wurm created “Big Pumpkin.” Tony Cragg’s “Mixed Feelings” is about change.
The ARTZUID information pavilion is at Minervalaan 1. Here, you can get maps and catalogues. Guided tours are also available. You can explore the route on your own. Or, join a tour to learn more.
So, take your time to explore En route Sculpture. Let the art spark your imagination. Reflect on the stories these sculptures tell. Enjoy the blend of art and city life.