Jan van Raay

Writings

ARTICLE

by Jan van Raay

ARTZIEN Vol. 1 No. 2, Decemeber 1978
A Monthly Review of Art in Amsterdam

Is bigger better? Is more less? Why are Amsterdam galleries so small? The is room. The recently relocated Article gallery, Prinsengracht 629, is an example of what can be done.

Wim van Krimpen, director of Article, has a personal passion to exhibit the art he would like to buy. He said that "there are not enough major collectors in Holland to support such a space. It must be done out of love."

Existing as a small gallery for one year, van Krimpen saw the necessity for more space, especially for sculpture. It began as a garage in the building he had purchased on the Prinsengracht, and after a six month rebuilding project, finished as a clean, bright, dynamic hall for art. There are still a few kinks to be worked out, the lighting system isn't settled yet, but the room seems endless. The possibilities for the use of such space are very exciting. For example, performance art, so often relegated to a small are that both inhibits the performer as well as the observers, could benefit greatly. Too much of the art seen in Amsterdam suffers from cramped quarters. If space is not available, perhaps less should be exhibited. But Article show that there are alternatives.

Through December 23: Kees Smiths, paintings.




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