This spring you won't be bored, because there is plenty to see and do in Dordrecht in the field of culture. How about a beautiful exhibition at Huis Van Gijn, or a brand new exhibition in the Kunstkerk? There is also a great exhibition to admire in the Dordrechts Museum.
From old masters to modern surprises – discover why Dordrecht is bursting with cultural gems.
Discover solo exhibition Dust to Dust
Experience Dust to Dust , the latest solo exhibition by Belgian-Dutch artist Job Smeets in the atmospheric Kunstkerk . With a unique mix of craftsmanship, humor and profound symbolism, Smeets takes you along in his vision of the transience of life and the uninterrupted flow of time. Be surprised by a versatile collection, with life-size bronze sculptures, objects made of oak, silver and sparkling Swarovski crystals, supplemented with original drawings. The title of the exhibition is inspired by the funeral text 'Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust' and emphasizes the continuous flow of time in which everything continues, with or without us. The exhibition contains several remarkable objects, such as a bronze monkey covered in crystals and a baroque cake with a camera that observes you as you look at it. All works are presented in the Netherlands for the first time - a special opportunity to discover this masterful oeuvre up close!
Discover the world of Johan de Witt!
This year we are celebrating the 400th birthday of Johan de Witt (1625-1672). An excellent moment to reflect on his life and the traces he left in the city! This is done throughout the year, because it is the Johan de Witt year. Visit the exhibition 'The world of Johan de Witt, Art from the heart of the 17th century' in the Dordrechts Museum. The basis: his letters and more than 150 paintings. Get to know Johan as a lovelorn bachelor, loving son, concerned husband, good violinist, talented mathematician and grieving father. Masterpieces by Rembrandt and Jan Steen, among others, are coming to the city from all over the world. The exhibition was created in close collaboration with the Huygens Institute. More activities will follow later in the year, such as a theatre performance, treasure hunt and educational project for children and all kinds of musical performances, lectures, a symposium and various workshops. There is something for everyone, according to David Timmer of Library AanZet , driving force behind the Johan de Witt year. “We think it is important to reflect on the life of Johan de Witt. So that Dordrecht residents can learn more about him.”
Party! 100 years of House Van Gijn
Museum Huis Van Gijn is celebrating its 100th anniversary and that will certainly not go unnoticed! Until 26 October, you can visit the exhibition 'Van de partij!' : an exhibition of party and fancy dress clothing in historical interiors. Huis Van Gijn manages a special collection of historical fashion, including many (children's) fancy dress clothing from the nineteenth and early twentieth century. This anniversary is the opportunity to tell the story of tableaux vivants, altered old clothing to fancy dress costumes and student masquerades. But wedding dresses, evening dresses and military costumes are also on display. There is also a festive programme of guided tours and activities for all ages. For example, there is a theme day on party fashion from 1870-1920 with presentations and fashion shows and the opportunity to view the collection up close. And what about dance workshops and historical tastings? Plenty to see and do!
