A fairy-tale Amsterdam provides the backdrop for our two-day trip just before the official start of the Christmas vacations in the Low Countries. No Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh or a stroll on the Amsterdam Red Light District this time. No, for its impending 750th anniversary, Amsterdam wants to showcase its hidden gems more.
What to do in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam Tourism gives us a taste of culture and encourages us to pick up a spray can or etch needle and create our own street art. After all, it's about tasting foreign cultures (Amsterdam has more than 150 different nationalities in the city), feeling open and connected thanks to technology, and proudly showing how the newest district in Amsterdam Noord at the NDSM quay is thriving and vibrant. This is an area known for its innovative start-ups and cultural events. According to the New York Times, it is now one of the world's trendiest hotspots.
From shipyard to Street Art: the Street Museum
For the museum of the popular contemporary art form street art, head to the iconic NDSM terrain, a former shipyard in Amsterdam North. Once an industrial no-go zone, this area is now a vibrant hub for art and creativity. The rough, unfinished look of the building conceals a perfect backdrop for street art.
From the outside, the building has a somewhat sad appearance, but perhaps that has more to do with my state of mind and the drizzling cold and windy weather, when I get out of the taxi and visit the museum during the Christmas period.
Once inside the building, you are overwhelmed by Poseidon, the god of the sea. His power is symbolised by an immense canvas. By the way, quite a few artworks in the collection are of XXXXL size but fit perfectly in this cast setting.
Since opening in October 2020, the museum has become a major cultural hub for urban art enthusiasts. With more than 180 works by over 150 artists from around the world, there is plenty to amaze and inspire.
During my visit, I am shown around by Alex Pope, a guide with an infectious passion for street art, who explains how almost all the artworks in the museum were created on the spot, without strict rules or restrictions. This gives the works an authentic character, as if they were moved directly from the street to the museum.
A unique collection
You visit this museum to admire art and, above all, be inspired: it is a meeting place for different cultures, styles and stories. Here you will find artworks ranging from abstract creations to socially critical pieces. There is a section dedicated to themes such as refugee issues, environmental issues and gender identity.
At the centre of the exhibition is a 7-metre-high flamingo installation by Spanish street artist Dulk. This artwork highlights the endangered habitat of flamingos worldwide, with a special focus on Spain's Albufera nature park near Valencia. Dulk's work aims to create awareness for ecosystem conservation, confronting visitors with both the visible and hidden consequences of environmental pollution.
Vermeer rediscovered: The girl with the pearl earring in a modern twist
One of the highlights of my visit is a modern interpretation of Johannes Vermeer's masterpiece The Girl with the Pearl Earring. This contemporary version, created by artist Elle, adds an inclusive twist to the classic painting. Elle's work is a powerful reflection on diversity and modernity, and it immediately grabs attention with its colourful palette and strong visual impact. Our guide Alex tells us that this work is an example of how street art can dialogue with traditional art history, a hallmark of the rich Dutch art tradition.
On your visit, don't miss the Panorama Deck. You will enjoy a panoramic view of the NDSM site. The museum shop is also highly recommended, with a wide range of unique items such as prints, clothes and books. The perfect place to find an original gift or keepsake.
I am more than pleasantly surprised by this new gem in Amsterdam. Art and creativity meet at this hotspot. Piqued and curious? Definitely put it on your bucket list when planning your next city trip to Amsterdam.
More information, opening hours and prices can be found here: straatmuseum.com you can also book a graffiti workshop there.
The Rembrandt House: in search of the master's secret
On the second day of our Amsterdam visit, we got up early. Amsterdam is in wake-up mode, as we stroll into the Rembrandt House just before the official opening hour. Just like the day before, this visit will be an interesting melange of information, inspiration and perspiration, and you can take the latter literally, as we head for an etching workshop in the attic of the imposing Rembrandthuis. I can still feel the cramps in my fingers and the drops of sweat on my face now that I think back on it a few days later.
Rembrandt is no noble stranger to me. As one of the grand masters of painting of the Dutch Golden Age, I saw the Night Watch several decades ago and gave my students the genesis of the painting as well as its numerous anecdotes. Meanwhile, the painting has been restored and can be admired in all its glory in the Rijksmuseum.
But enough dreaming. Back to the lesson and for today that is a guided visit at the Rembrandt House by an expert, then followed by a quick course with practical test etching. I won't let that pass me by.
The guide tells us that this historic building, where Rembrandt lived and worked between 1639 and 1658, offers a fascinating insight into his life, art and craft.
The house has many rooms, located on different floors. The interior has been meticulously reconstructed to give us an idea of how Rembrandt lived and worked here. From his personal collection of exotic objects (he appears to have been rather obsessively interested in crocodiles, although he never met a real one) to the easel on which he created masterpieces, every detail breathes history.
Rembrandt's secrets: colour and chiaroscuro
The collection of works in the Rembrandt House demonstrate the mastery of light and shadow, a technique known as chiaroscuro. They give his works an unparalleled intensity and it provided Baroque art with one of its most essential characteristics.
Another fascinating aspect of Rembrandt's work is his unique use of colours. The guide explains how Rembrandt composed his own pigments, including the use of exotic materials such as cochineal, a pigment extracted from tiny scale insects. Rembrandt's palette further included pigments such as lead white, ultramarine and ochre, often mixed according to his own secret formulas. This created exceptional depth and richness in his paintings, a technique you can admire up close at the museum.
Creativity in action: an etching workshop
After the tour through the Rembrandt House and information on chiaroscuro and colour creation, the highlight followed: going to etch ourselves in the studio in the attic. Some of Rembrandts' etchings serve as examples and we get to work like his pupils did over four hundred years ago. The workshop starts with a brief introduction on the process of etching: from preparing the etching plate to applying the ink and printing on paper. It is amazing to discover how to capture complex emotions and stories with simple lines. With an engraving needle in hand, I imagine myself a 17th-century artist for a moment. The results will certainly not be exhibited in the Louvre next year, but the experience does give me a deeper respect for the craft that is etching. Moreover, I get to take home my own work, a tangible reminder of this unique experience.
Practical information and workshops
The Rembrandt House is more than a museum. It is a tribute to one of the greatest artists in our history. People regularly organise workshops, such as painting and etching, at this museum. The aim: to bring visitors closer to Rembrandt's techniques. These activities are perfect for art lovers of all ages. The Rembrandt Museum is open every day from 10am, except on public holidays. More information on the exact opening hours, prices and how to attend a workshop can be found on this website: rembrandthuis.nl
The Amsterdam Monster Factory app
The city's DNA, with more than a hint of augmented reality
Imagine walking through Amsterdam, but instead of just canals, bridges and bicycles, you discover a world full of colourful, funny and intriguing monsters that tell the city's story. This is not science fiction. This is the magic of the Amsterdam Monster Factory, an innovative augmented reality (AR) project that brings the soul of Amsterdam to life. We spoke to initiator Daniel Leahy and toured the city with him for an interactive city tour through a slice of Amsterdam.
The philosophy: Amsterdam through the eyes of monsters
The Amsterdam Monster Factory was created with one aim: to celebrate Amsterdam's unique values of diversity, openness and creativity. These monsters are not just random creatures. They are the result of years of love for the city and a desire to tell stories in a unique way. Each monster symbolises a core value of Amsterdam, such as freedom, innovation or sustainability.
The initiator, Daniel Leahy, an Irishman who has felt at home in Amsterdam for almost three decades, describes the city as a 750-year-old social experiment. ‘If you are open to others, magic can happen,’ says Leahy. This idea forms the basis of the Monster Factory.
Who are the monsters?
May I introduce the unique and funny monsters? Following are Mokey, Kima, Biggie, Gretel, Prudence, Coco and EJ. Each monster also has its own character and meaning:
Moki: The big friendly giant with a high pettability rating, represents the core values of courage and openness. He was present at all important historical events since the birth of the city of Amsterdam.
Kiki and Kima: The monsters of mercy, who are open to people in need. Kiki is loving, but can also be stern. Kima is sweet, compassionate and gentle.
E.J.: The DJ. He brings conviviality and the city's social life to life. Having fun and brewing parties he does like no other.
Uncle Buck: The trader, who believes in strong lasting contacts as well as maintaining relationships from different cultures. Openness is one of his basic values.
Prudence is smart and sharp with a big heart. She is open and caring towards everyone.
KoKo: The patron of artistic expression and creativity.
Gretel the Goth: Represents freedom of expression and a taboo-free city.
Biggie: the baby: the love baby of Moki and Kiki and the embodiment of the future and an open-minded spirit. Biggie symbolises Amsterdam's aspirations as a city that wants to continue to grow and prosper.
Together, these monsters form the DNA of Amsterdam, a city that is always on the move and knows how to write new stories.
How does this App work?
With the Monster Factory app available on iOs and Android, users can take an interactive tour of Amsterdam. By pointing your phone's camera at certain locations, monsters appear in augmented reality. They share stories you may never have heard before. For example, did you know that Dam Square has a fascinating history told by Moki? Or that the Vondelpark hides more secrets than you ever imagined?
The app is free to download as the project is supported by collaborations with local businesses and institutions, such as hotels and museums. Once you complete the city tour, you unlock discount coupons for local restaurants, cafes and various shops. Download the app: amsterdammonsterfactory.com
The Amsterdam Monster Factory is not just another city tour. In an interactive way, you will experience for yourself what makes Amsterdam unique. With humor, creativity and a touch of technology, the project brings the city to life in a cool, entertaining and playful way. Thanks to the app, the user meets monsters with a story and beautiful values, connecting people and giving you the chance to discover Amsterdam in a surprising way.
TIP: For those who prefer to stay indoors (Amsterdam is known for its rainy days), the app also offers a home experience. From the comfort of your own living room, you can experience the adventure and learn about the city without setting foot outside the door.
The Amsterdam Light Festival
In the late afternoon, we board a small cozy boat to cruise through Amsterdam's canals. Sipping a glass of champagne, we enjoy the spectacle of light on and alongside Amsterdam's various canals during the Amsterdam Light Festival. This event will illuminate the city until January 19, 2025 around the theme of Rituals. During this thirteenth edition, 27 artists will present unique light artworks that highlight the diversity and meaning of rituals.
On this website: amsterdamlightfestival.com you can buy the app and book a bike or boat tour.
Tasting culture in Amsterdam and discover its culture makers.
On the I Amsterdam website you will find even more information and inspiration for a unique visit to Amsterdam. If you want to read more about visiting Amsterdam or other places in the Netherlands be sure to check out this page as well.
Unique accommodation in Amsterdam
The trendy hotel YOTEL is an excellent choice for an overnight stay in Amsterdam.
Located at Asterweg 33 in Amsterdam-North, YOTEL Amsterdam combines innovative technology with modern design. The hotel offers compact, efficient rooms, known as “cabins,” which are equipped with amenities such as adjustable SmartBeds, rain showers and super fast Wi-Fi. The hotel is easily accessible via a free ferry from nearby Buiksloterweg to Amsterdam Central Station, followed by a short walk or bike ride.
Eating out in Amsterdam
For a successful city trip, tasting the delicious international cuisine Amsterdam has to offer is indispensable.
Below are some of our favorite addresses to taste culture in Amsterdam:
Near the street museum on the NDSM wharf, you'll find NEXT NDSM. This cosmopolitan all-day restaurant and cocktail bar was founded by Sjoerd Steenbeek, also owner of nearby Pllek. NEXT offers a dynamic culinary experience from early morning until late at night. The interior of NEXT NDSM combines industrial elements with chic, modern décor, contributing to an inviting and stylish atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a varied menu of international and fusion dishes.
Namche Nepalese Indian Food & Bar is a restaurant in Amsterdam that presents the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Nepal and India. Located at 91 Lange Leidsedwarsstraat, Namche offers unique dishes from the Himalayas, ranging from specialties from the hills to the spicy curries from the lowlands.
A recent addition to the unique Andaz hotel is Barstro Prins & Aap, a combination bar and bistro. The name refers to the statues of princes found throughout the hotel and symbolizes the playful nature of the location. The interior, designed by Karin Krautgartner, is inspired by Amsterdam, the armchairs on paintings by Vermeer and a triptych inspired by Hieronymus Bosch. Prins & Aap offers a diverse experience, from coffee in the morning to cocktails in the evening, and regularly hosts events such as gin tastings.
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