Gino Borter
-> Voorlinden
-> Scandinavia
-> Leiden
COMING SOON
→ Basel
→ SAF
→ Mountaineers
→ Stahl und Beton
The museum is situated on a historic estate, which has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The Voorlinden estate originally belonged to the Van Pallandt family, who built the main house in 1912. The estate's landscape was designed by British landscape architect Russell Page, who created an English-style garden that still enchants visitors today. Over the years, the estate has evolved, maintaining its charm and elegance while adapting to its new role as a cultural hub. The museum building itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, designed by the renowned Dutch architect Dirk Jan Postel of Kraaijvanger Architects. The structure is characterized by its sleek lines, natural light, and harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape. Large glass walls offer visitors uninterrupted views of the gardens, creating a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The building's design prioritizes natural light, using a specially designed roof to filter sunlight, enhancing the viewing experience of the artworks. The design was inspired by Mies van der Rohe's Neue Nationalgalerie in Berlin and Renzo Piano's exhibition building for the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen near Basel.
Museum Voorlinden hosts a variety of temporary and permanent exhibitions that showcase both international and Dutch artists. The collection includes works by notable artists such as:
- Richard Serra: Known for his large-scale sculptures, Serra's "Open Ended" is a permanent fixture at the museum, providing an immersive experience in the interplay of space and material.
- Ellsworth Kelly: His colorful, abstract works are a highlight of the museum’s collection, emphasizing form and color.
- Roni Horn: Her works, often exploring themes of identity and perception, are part of the museum's varied exhibits.
- Yayoi Kusama: The museum features Kusama's iconic "Infinity Room," offering visitors a mesmerizing experience of repetitive patterns and reflections.
In addition to these permanent installations, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that feature contemporary artists and thematic shows. These exhibitions are designed to engage visitors with the latest trends and movements in the art world, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting.
One of the museum's most celebrated installations is "Skyspace" by James Turrell, which invites visitors to experience the changing light and colors of the sky through a specially designed viewing chamber. Another highlight is Leandro Erlich's "Swimming Pool," an optical illusion that allows visitors to walk beneath the surface of a pool without getting wet, providing a playful and thought-provoking experience.