Since its foundation in 1949, Sonsbeek has contributed to the global contemporary art scene with her groundbreaking vision and turning Arnhem into an international art destination. Thanks to the generous support of the municipality of Arnhem, Sonsbeek will continue to be involved with the city and its residents: “Sonsbeek is an Arnhem-based exhibition with international allure. The 75-year-long history of Sonsbeek is filled with visionary editions, which can be considered signs of the times. The choice for Park Sonsbeek as a location makes Sonsbeek accessible for everyone. I am proud of this iconic exhibition in our city, and I am looking forward to the anniversary edition in 2026,” says Cathelijne Bouwkamp, elder woman Urban Development, Ecology, Sustainability, and Culture. 

A new beginning
In addition to inexhaustible inspiration, valuable lessons can be learned from previous editions. With a change of leadership, Sonsbeek pledges to honor the vision of previous editions and all those involved. “The previous artistic team was unable to finish their program, a program that would culminate in an edition celebrating 75 years of Sonsbeek. I consider it an honor to be able to bring a part of their ideas and work methods into the future, to make sure their vision, sharp eye, and courage are not lost,” says general director Orlando Maaike Gouwenberg. 

Vision for the future
For Gouwenberg, Sonsbeek is a place where knowledge production, experimentation and sharing art with a broad audience go hand in hand. Under her leadership, the foundation will enter into long-term collaborations with both international and national partners. “In this time of global turbulence, where rapid and intense changes challenge us mentally and physically, Sonsbeek wants to offer the space to reflect on the impact of these changes on the world,” says Gouwenberg. In order to be sensitive to what is needed at this moment, she is guided by core values that come from improvisational theater: be brave; listen, really listen; trust in the other, yourself and the unknown. According to Gouwenberg, this creates “space to experience things in different ways and to tell stories through works of art that arouse curiosity and can move you.”

Please find the complete press release here. Only available in Dutch.