Dutch, More or Less

Dutch, More or Less: Contemporary Architecture, Design and Digital Culture opened at the Nieuwe Instituut in Rotterdam. For two years, this long-term presentation will showcase the versatility and distinctiveness of ‘Dutch design’, which has made such an impact worldwide since the 1990s. More than 70 designers, architect and digital makers are represented, from icons such as OMA, Victor & Rolf, Iris van Herpen and Bas van Abel to unexpected gamechangers, and from interactive installations to fashion items, models and furniture.

As the Netherlands itself is in many ways designed and fabricated, its spaces, objects and interactions have traditionally been a breeding ground for new ideas. This presentation explores how driven by social and ecological urgencies and technological developments, boundaries between the three disciplines are dissolving since the 1990s in a shared search for a better future.

Dutch, More or Less begins with a trip down memory lane, with several iconic pieces from the 1990s. In a time of increasing globalisation and the rise of the internet, Dutch design, often with government support, quickly became of international importance. This is reflected in the characteristic playfulness and positivity of the works included from the three disciplines.

These include Sjoerd Soeters’ ‘circus theatre’ in Zandvoort and the Expo 2000 Dutch Pavilion by MVRDV; the Long Neck Bottle by Hella Jongerius and the Chair with Holes by Gijs Bakker; and digital works such as the Digital City [Digitale Stad] and Mediamatic’s proceedings of the Doors of Perception conference.