Freedom of Movement

For the 2018 Municipal Art Acquisitions the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam seeks work by Netherlands-based artists around the notion of “Freedom of Movement.” The phrase “Freedom of Movement” is commonly used to describe the ability of citizens to travel visa-free outside their native country, and has surged in usage since the recent rise of nativist and populist politics in the West. Taken poetically, the notion of “Freedom of Movement” also refers to the body itself; its ability to move, take action, and have agency. Artworks exploring the topic of political agency through movement—whether through moving image, performance, choreography—are particularly sought after.

The 2018 Municipal Art Acquisitions further focuses on the field of time-based media: film, video, performance, dance, theater, sound, new media, and internet art. With the appointment of Karen Archey in 2017, the Stedelijk’s first dedicated time-based media curator, the museum has given prime importance to its burgeoning collection of durational art.”

Interested parties may apply with finished works, works in progress or works they would like to produce for the exhibition. Only works created after 2013 from artists working and/or living in the Netherlands will be considered. Together with an international jury, Archey will make a selection from the open call, which will be exhibited in the fall of 2018. A selection of works will be acquired by Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam for the museum’s permanent collection.

The application for the 2018 Municipal Art Acquisitions will open December 18, 2017 and close February 12, 2018. Further information can be found via the online application here. Please no solicitations by mail.