De Grote Kunstshow (The Great Art Show) turns the classic museum model on its head. Instead of walking through white museum rooms, viewers are presented with art in a theatrical setting on stage. ‘Fresh, attractive and innovative’, wrote De Volkskrant newspaper about the first edition in 2013.
The presentation is in the hands of Flemish theatre maker Lucas de Man. He involves the audience in the Art Show and stimulates them with unexpected ideas.
After shows featuring works from the collections of the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, the Frans Hals Museum | De Hallen Haarlem, the Rabobank Art Collection and shows about Atelier van Lieshout and Bas Kosters, this edition of The Great Art Show is dedicated to photographer Erwin Olaf Springfeld (1959-2023). Step into the world of one of the Netherlands’ most famous artists during a 90-minute viewing show. His work, especially photography, is characterised by staged settings and poses, in which he controlled every detail. In the 1980s, Erwin Olaf became known for “kinky photos, baroque costume parties, fat women in bondage, and the occasional erection” (Het Parool). Later, his work became more subdued and melancholic, exploring new themes such as loneliness, vulnerability, and sadness. Olaf has an international reputation and has had exhibitions in museums worldwide. His work is included in many collections, such as those of the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, Groninger Museum, and Rijksmuseum Amsterdam.
Admire his photographs, characters, clothing and interiors in The Great Art Show. With presenter Lucas De Man, enthusiast Margriet van der Linden (Opzij, Zomergasten, M), actors Lars Brinkman and Dieuwertje Dir, music, monologues and interviews, Olaf’s oeuvre is brought to life in a theatrical way. Discover the stories behind highlights from his oeuvre and unknown work. Beauty ideals, activism, identity, vulnerability and eroticism are Erwin Olaf’s fascinations – ideal ingredients for a stimulating Art Show. Even before his death, Olaf was enthusiastic and honoured to discuss a show dedicated to his work. This edition is a must for anyone who wants to get to know Olaf’s extraordinary photographic legacy and the man behind the work better and, above all, differently. Afterwards, the show seamlessly transitions into an exhibition on stage, offering a chance to view Olaf’s work up close.
The Great Art Show X Erwin Olaf is an initiative of Johan Idema, in collaboration with Studio Erwin Olaf. By purchasing a ticket, you are supporting the Erwin Olaf Foundation, to which part of the proceeds will be donated.
De Grote Kunstshow X Erwin Olaf
19 October to 23 November at DeLaMar Amsterdam, Stadsschouwburg Groningen, Stadsschouwburg Haarlem, Flint Amersfoort, Theater a/d Parade Den Bosch, Singer Laren, Oude Luxor Rotterdam & Stadsschouwburg Utrecht.
kunstshow.nl/erwinolaf
erwinolaf.com
Photography: Maarten Nauw
