Museum de Fundatie

Located in the heart of Zwolle, the Museum de Fundatie is a captivating destination for any art lover or curious traveler. This museum, with its rich history and eclectic collection, is a testament to the cultural heritage of the Netherlands. Divided into two main locations – the former Palace of Justice in Zwolle and the grand Kasteel het Nijenhuis in Wijhe – the Museum de Fundatie offers a unique blend of neoclassical architecture and contemporary art.

The History of Museum de Fundatie

The Museum de Fundatie in Zwolle is housed in a building that was originally constructed between 1838 and 1841. Designed by the Hague architect Eduard Louis de Coninck, this former Palace of Justice exhibits a neoclassical style with its symmetrical facades and grand columns. Over the years, the building has undergone several transformations. In the 1980s, it was repurposed as an office for the Department of Information Processing of the National Planning Service. Later, it served as the home of the Museum for Naive and Outsider Art De Stadshof from 1994 to 2001.

In 2004-2005, the building was transformed once again by architect Gunnar Daan to become the Zwolle location of Museum de Fundatie. The most striking alteration came in 2012-2013 when the museum was expanded with a modern addition known as the cloud. This ellipsoid exhibition space, designed by architect Hubert-Jan Henket, is covered in 55,000 white and blue glazed tiles, adding a contemporary flair to the historic structure. The museum was officially reopened by Princess Beatrix on May 31, 2013.

Exploring the Zwolle Location

Visitors to the Museum de Fundatie in Zwolle are immediately drawn to its distinctive architecture. The combination of the neoclassical base and the futuristic cloud creates a visually stunning contrast. Inside, the museum boasts a diverse collection of artworks ranging from the late Middle Ages to the present day. The collection is largely based on the extensive and eclectic art collection of Dirk Hannema, the museum's founder.

Among the notable pieces in the collection are works by renowned artists such as Jan Fabre, Marc Chagall, Neo Rauch, John Heartfield, Karel Appel, and Jan Cremer. One of the highlights is the painting Le blute-fin Mill by Vincent van Gogh, which was confirmed as an authentic Van Gogh in 2010 after years of speculation. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, ensuring that there is always something new to discover.

Kasteel het Nijenhuis in Wijhe

The second location of Museum de Fundatie is Kasteel het Nijenhuis, a historic castle situated between the towns of Wijhe and Heino in the Salland region. This 14th-century estate was once the residence of Dirk Hannema, who lived there from 1958 until his death in 1984. Hannema, a passionate art collector and former director of Museum Boijmans in Rotterdam, established the Hannema-de Stuers Foundation to house his private collection.

In 2004, after a restoration led by architect Gunnar Daan, Kasteel het Nijenhuis was opened to the public on a regular basis. The castle's 4.5-hectare sculpture garden, inaugurated by Queen Beatrix in 1991, is one of the largest in the Netherlands. It features over a hundred sculptures from the late 18th century to the present, sourced from the collections of Museum de Fundatie, the province of Overijssel, and the Museum Beelden aan Zee in Scheveningen.

Visiting Kasteel het Nijenhuis

A visit to Kasteel het Nijenhuis offers a serene and picturesque experience. The castle itself is a beautiful example of historic architecture, with its elegant facade and well-manicured gardens. Inside, visitors can explore the rooms where Hannema once lived and view his extensive art collection. The sculpture garden is a highlight, with its diverse array of sculptures set against the backdrop of the lush landscape.

Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Kasteel het Nijenhuis provides a unique and enriching experience. The combination of historic charm and contemporary art creates a harmonious blend that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Future Plans and Collaborations

Looking ahead, Museum de Fundatie is working on plans for a third museum location, De Rode Loods, in the Spoorzone area of Zwolle. This new addition aims to further expand the museum's reach and offer more opportunities for cultural engagement.

In conclusion, Museum de Fundatie is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and history. With its two distinct locations, the museum offers a rich and varied experience that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Whether you are exploring the neoclassical grandeur of the Zwolle location or the historic charm of Kasteel het Nijenhuis, you are sure to be inspired by the incredible art and architecture on display.