For a long weekend in November, BIG ART opens its doors. Once again, the XL art platform is back at Bajeskwartier in Amsterdam.
Image: Almicheal Fraay
This art event distinguishes itself from other fairs in the Netherlands, but also from exhibitions in museums and galleries: it is one of the few places where works of art of an expansive size can be displayed and this makes it a popular stage for artists who work in a spacious medium. The vast halls of the Bajeskwartier are ideal for extra-large sculptures, drawings, paintings, light art, photography and kinetic installations, many of which are site-specific.
Enter through the huge doors and set your eyes on a large canvas or statue. The spaces are raw and post-industrial-looking in character, which creates an exciting contrast with the often delicate works of art.
Image: Pierre Banoori
An art event for everyone
BIG ART is aimed at a wide audience, from professional artists and art school students to people who do not often attend art fairs, museums or galleries, but want to be surprised and inspired. Every year the curators look for a stimulating combination of different art disciplines, from well-known names and emerging talents to autonomous and more applied work. As a result, BIG ART remains as interesting for the art professional as it is for the broader audience.
Many artists use the opportunity to create new work on the spot. At every edition of the event, there have typically been several works made “in situ” that enter into a relationship with the location. Anne van der Zwaag, director of BIG ART, said, “For artists, this is a way to show what they have to offer. New assignments often roll out here.” Most art installations are for sale.
Image: Pierre Banoori
Expansive venue in an up-and-coming district
The event takes place in Bajeskwartier, a green, leafy, sustainable district that is up-and-coming in the east of Amsterdam. Despite all the limitations during the pandemic, BIG ART was able to continue in recent years at some of the most spacious art venues you'll ever find in the Netherlands, and the platform has continued to garner a lot of attention.
Getting to the exhibition
The Bajeskwartier is located close to the Amsterdam Ring highway which is handy for anybody driving to the exhibition and for anyone cycling, it is a 15-minute bike ride from the heart of Amsterdam. As it is located next to Spaklerweg metro station it is also very easy to reach with public transportation.
Image: Pierre Banoori
Get your BIG ART tickets and plan your visit
- Where: Bajeskwartier, H.J.E. Wenckebachweg 48, 1096 AH, Amsterdam
- When: November 4-6, 2022 at 10am-6pm
- How much: Tickets are available online and at the door and cost 12,50 euros. Children under 12 can enter for free.
Check out the BIG ART website for more information.
Thumb image: Almicheal Fraay