Date: Friday, September 19, 2025
Time: 16.30 am to 19.30 Hours
Starting location: Rotterdam Airport runway 27, at the artwork Mikado
Program location: Amrâth Airport Hotel Rotterdam, Vliegveldweg 59
Participation is free. Due to room capacity, register via Eventbrite desired.
On the occasion of the 100th birthday of sculptor André Volten, BKOR and SIR are organizing Z-Files #32: Thing Among Things. This multifaceted programme focuses on the relationship between visual art in public spaces and the (built) environment.
The starting point is Mikado, an artwork Volten created in 1975 with funds from the percentage scheme for the Zestienhoven Airport terminal. The sculpture and its turbulent history offer material for a broader discussion about visual art in public spaces: about research, updating and appreciation, management and collection development, and the practice of art-making. How much space is left for visual art specifically created for the environment and architecture? How can the significance of visual art in public spaces be updated, beyond the functional and decorative? What is its role in a shrinking playing field that is increasingly being shaped by private parties?
With Ove Lucas (director CBK Rotterdam), Frits Prior (André Volten Foundation), Martine van Kampen (director/curator Land Art Flevoland), Sharon Oldenkotte-Vrolijk (director of Arts & Culture BPD Area Development), Monique Marijnissen (senior landscape designer, Municipality of Rotterdam) and Jeroen Doorenweerd (visual artist).
Moderator of the final debate: Esther Didden (philosopher and programme maker)
Performance: choreographer Charlotte Puebla and dancers Hinako Yukimoto and Annakha Flos
There will be drinks afterwards. Afterwards, you can eat something at your own expense in the restaurant of Hotel Amrâth. Remember to make your reservation by Friday, September 12th at the latest. restaurant.
About Z-Files, art and the city
Z-Files, art and the city is a program by BKOR and SIR that addresses art and public space, and all the dilemmas inherent in this discipline, through lectures, presentations, films, and excursions. The program aims to highlight Rotterdam's unique collection of artworks and facilitate discussion of current developments.
