We’re now happy to introduce our latest ambassador for Amsterdam Art Week 2023, Ahmed Emin Batman! A multi-talented visual artist, content creator and architect-to-be, Ahmed is born and raised in Amsterdam, and has been a vital part of the cultural scene here for many years.
Having previously worked for Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam and he now works for van Gogh Museum as a Beeldbreker and content creator. Spirituality, migration and architecture are themes which he focuses on in his own work. His latest projects are ‘In Between Tompouce and Baklava’ documenting the first-generation Turkish migration workers in Europe. In addition, a work in progress is the ‘Do You Hear Our Voices’ documentary he shot during his volunteer work in the Earthquake Zone in Türkiye.
Ahmed uses art as a medium for self-expression, treating it as a form of therapy. For Ahmed, Art also means exploring and understanding the world around us, and it is a way to get to know different cultures, adding new perspectives to his life.
He offered some interesting perspective on the Amsterdam Art scene, letting us know what he thinks makes it so unique:
“One unique aspect of the Amsterdam art scene is its emphasis on engagement with the local community. Many galleries and cultural institutions actively seek to involve local residents and artists in their programming and events, and there is a strong sense of collaboration and dialogue between artists, curators, and audiences. Additionally, the city’s public art program, which features a range of permanent and temporary installations in public spaces, helps to integrate art into everyday life and create a sense of civic pride and identity.”
Ahmed believes that hospitality in the art world is all about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages people to engage with art and cultural events. He explains that this can involve creating comfortable and accessible physical spaces, providing informative and engaging educational programming, and fostering a culture of openness and dialogue. To Ahmed it also includes giving a stage to upcoming artists to showcase their work.
He gave us some of his tips for places to visit during Amsterdam Art Week, including Hama Gallery, one of his favourites in Amsterdam. He explained that he likes that they aim to make art more accessible to visitors by providing a different art experience that breaks with tradition. Another tip from him was W139, which features experimental and interdisciplinary exhibitions and events.
If you want to find out more about what’s going on at these two locations during Amsterdam Art Week, make sure to check our agenda!
