The world of private museums is constantly changing: every day, collections are unveiled, new (and often unexpected) collaborations between institutions arise and boundary-pushing architectural marvels are built. The private museum sphere often sees the pairing of the historic and the contemporary in beautiful settings – nowhere is this tradition better displayed than the newly opened Museum Voorlinden in the Netherlands.
Fresh off of a September 11th opening, the Museum Voorlinden is located in Wassenaar, a stunning landscape with forests, dunes, winding waters, vast grasslands and gardens. The opening exhibition is an “ode” to the late Ellsworth Kelly, the first solo exhibition of the artist’s work in the Netherlands since 1979.
The most impactful private museums are the ones that spring from the deep passion and dedication of their often collectors. Museum Voorlinden is the brain child of Dutch businessman Joop van Caldenborgh, who, according to the New York Times, started designing the museum seven years ago, meticulously planning out all the details of the museum’s infrastructure to ensure a seamless viewing experience for visitors. The director, Wim Pijbes, was most recently general director of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.
The new Ellsworth Kelly exhibition is well-matched by the permanent collection, which includes pieces tailor made for the museum. James Turrell captures the scenery and natural light of Wassenaar with a piece called Skyspace. Argentine conceptual artist Leandro Erlich created “Swimming Pool” specially for Voorlinden.
If you happen to be in the Netherlands, we encourage you to also explore the unique art and architecture of Rotterdam and Amsterdam. And while you’re at it, make sure to check out the private museum scene.
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