Opening of the Watersnoodmuseum Residency
Ouwerkerk – On Wednesday, January 10, 2024, the Watersnoodmuseum Residency will be officially opened. Artists Willem de Haan and Bart Schalekamp will present their work from the past period. Composer and musician Merlijn Twaalfhoven will also give a brief lecture on how art and science can complement each other. We will also be introduced to the two artists for the upcoming quarter: Maartje Korstanje and Suzette Bousema.
Artists at Work
Over the course of a year, 10 artists will take turns working in a special studio at the Watersnoodmuseum. Their inspiration comes from the 1953 Watersnoodramp and the current rise in sea levels.
This project is made possible by the Mondriaan Fund. Gino Anthonisse selects the artists on behalf of the Watersnoodmuseum. If successful, the project may be extended next year.
Kunstenaars
Willem de Haan from Rotterdam and Bart Schalekamp from Utrecht began their projects in October 2023.
Willem de Haan will explore how we need to adapt our environment to the effects of rising sea levels. Bart Schalekamp is fascinated by physical processes and inspired by the dual nature of society’s relationship with water.
Starting in January 2024, Maartje Korstanje and Suzette Bousema will join the residency.
"Water is an embodiment of both pure chaos and calm. I find it fascinating how we coexist with these two extremes in our country."
Science
During their residency, the artists will interact with both the public and scientists. We connect the artists with a scientist who aligns with their interests in the themes of water, climate, and sea level rise.
At the residency opening, artist Suzette Bousema and scientist Claudia Wieners will also discuss geo-engineering.
Lecture by Merlijn Twaalfhoven
Science has been warning for years about climate change and its significant consequences, such as extreme weather and rising sea levels. However, this still doesn’t always receive the attention it deserves.
Composer and musician Merlijn Twaalfhoven, through his international musical projects, has extensive experience in dealing with uncertainties. During his lecture, he will discuss what we can learn from artists about handling uncertainty and how art and science can strengthen each other.
Program
- 14:30 - 15:00: Reception with coffee, tea, and Zeeuwse bolus.
- 15:00 - 16:15:
- Welcome address by Siemco Louwerse, Director of Watersnoodmuseum.
- Preview of the residency year by Gino Anthonisse.
- Lecture by composer and musician Merlijn Twaalfhoven.
- Suzette Bousema in conversation with Claudia Wieners.
- Work presentations by Willem de Haan and Bart Schalekamp.
- Official opening of the residency.
- 16:15 - 18:00: Reception
- 18:00: End of program.
Location
The program will take place in Caisson 1 at the Watersnoodmuseum.
Registration
Everyone is welcome to this opening. Please register to confirm your attendance!
