From May 17 to July 6, Artzaanstad presents Bas Kosters’ titillating, freely accessible solo exhibition An exercise in JOY. On view are colorful and joyful wall hangings, drawings, paintings, costumes, soft sculptures, ceramics, collage and graphics.
From summer 2021 to May 2024, artist Bas Kosters worked on his project about joy. He investigated whether experiencing joy is a manufacturable concept. After several partial presentations, his joy project, supplemented with new designs, can now be seen in its totality at the solo exhibition An exercise in Joy in Artzaanstad. Opulence, sensuality, softness, abundance and gathering play a major role in Bas’ colorful, exuberant and sensual visual language.
The exhibition shows very diverse and experimental works, ranging from flat work on the wall to textile installations in space. The exhibition introduces you to Bas in a very personal way. The first artwork is from 2021 and brings together analog and digital techniques in a square collage. Bas’ penchant for rich and contrasting use of color can be seen in the vibrant tapestries with naive representations. The placement and choice of materials leads to a sparkling and voluptuous universe. Textiles are also reflected in the hand, heart and flower costumes that convey the importance of contact, love and blossoming. Several soft sculptures, such as a self-portrait doll with chakras made of brilliant glass stones, show the sincerity of Bas’ quest for joy.
Among Bas’ favorite techniques are drawing and painting. Several series of drawings focus on Jobe the JOY bear, which expresses emotions from growth to affection. Another highlight of the exhibition are the ceramic objects that can be used in a ritual gathering. The largest piece is a wishing well, into which you can toss a coin and make a wish for your own good mood. These pieces are the result of Bas’ first steps in working with ceramics as a basic material.
Artzaanstad
Artzaanstad, located in a historic industrial factory building on the Hembrug site in Zaanstad, organizes high-profile exhibitions several times a year. The gallery, art loan and art sale has a high social and community profile in which free admission, a wide range of offerings and educational projects play an important role.
Exhibition ‘An exercise in JOY’
Artzaanstad, Zaandam
May 16 – July 6, 2025
artzaanstad.nl
Photography exhibition: Lucy Bink
