Cooperation
For the development and production of the exhibition, the Ongekend Bijzonder team worked closely with the Central Library.
The exhibition introduces us to the history of fifteen Rotterdam citizens, to objects that are dear to them and to their perception of Rotterdam. The emphasis of the stories is on the reconstruction of their lives in Rotterdam, each story expressed in about 400 words. Of course, we would be doing the storytellers a disservice if we were to claim that their stories can be summarised in such a limited number of words. We only lift a tip of the veil here. The complete interviews, together with all interviewees in Rotterdam, can be found at the Stadsarchief Rotterdam and DANS.
For all portraits, go to ongekendbijzonder
Rotterdam Celebrates the City!
The exhibition linked up with Rotterdam viert de Stad! a manifestation about 75 years of reconstruction. The exhibition could be seen in the Central Library in Rotterdam from 12 May to 10 June 2016. An excellent opportunity to involve new Rotterdam residents. In the review RvdS writes: The exhibition attracted over 200,000 visitors!
Publication
The exhibition was accompanied by the publication“De wederopbouw van mijn leven” and a online magazine.
The fact that my story is now reflected in this exhibition means that, after 35 years, I feel for the first time like a real Rotterdammer
Rotterdam is my home, offers me opportunities and appreciates my artistic presence. It is a city with a lot of potential in which to grow. I am looking for space to grow. And space for growth is not something you get for free, you have to make an effort. That is the least you can do for the city that is your home and gives you peace and quiet. You create space not only for yourself, but also for the people around you. This increases the quality of your life and that of others.