The Amsterdam Museum has decided to keep the doors of its new temporary home in the Hermitage building closed until further notice. The opening, scheduled for Saturday 5 March, will not take place because of the war in Ukraine and sentiment about these poignant events across the country and the city.
''The war in Ukraine is having terrible consequences for a lot of people. We do not think a festive opening this weekend is appropriate. Also because actions are taking place across the country for Ukraine." explains Judikje Kiers, director of the Amsterdam Museum, further explains the decision. ''In addition, the Hermitage Amsterdam's ties with Russia are undeniable and too unclear for us. The Hermitage was unable to allay our concerns about this. This is also reason for us to suspend the opening and opening of the Amsterdam Museum wing in the Hermitage building at this time.''
Margriet Schavemaker, artistic director of the Amsterdam Museum adds: ''We stand firmly behind our new collection presentation and the temporary exhibitions, which deal with decolonisation, place-making and the promotion of equality, among other topics. An area has also been set up where visitors can share their stories about Ukraine and reactions to the war, and other conflicts around the world. It is extremely unfortunate that the opening has to be suspended.''
The Amsterdam Museum explicitly emphasises its support for all victims of this war.
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