OPENING 10 October 2025 | The Wereldmuseum Rotterdam will soon present a major solo exhibition by Rotterdam artist Marlou Fernanda, exploring a decade of her creative work. The exhibition will open on 10 October 2025 and will trace her artistic journey through paintings, sketches, notes, and installations.
Exhibition explores ten years of Marlou Fernanda's work
On 10 October 2025, Marlou Fernanda: A time for everything will open at Wereldmuseum Rotterdam. The multidisciplinary exhibition marks the first large-scale solo presentation of the Rotterdam-born artist (1996). It reflects on ten years of independent artistic practice, inviting visitors into a personal and at times confrontational world where themes of self-expression and the right to claim space take centre stage.
The exhibition is structured as a journey through four ‘seasons’ in Fernanda’s life and work. It will feature her large-scale paintings alongside never-before-shown sketches and handwritten notes, offering a layered insight into her development as a maker and individual.
The role of alter ego Nu-Nu
A recurring figure in Fernanda’s oeuvre is Nu-Nu, an expressive alter ego that for years served as a key outlet for her artistic voice. The exhibition charts Nu-Nu’s emergence, its role in helping Fernanda assert her presence, and her eventual decision to move away from it.
This narrative touches on questions of identity, family, and the process of finding one’s place in a society that does not always grant space willingly. Through handwritten texts and an interactive installation, visitors will be encouraged to reflect on their own associations and stories related to the themes of ‘self-expression’ and ‘claiming space’ (ruimte innemen).
Marlou Fernanda’s first major solo exhibition opens 10 October 2025 at Wereldmuseum Rotterdam, exploring a decade of her artistic journey.
Artist’s perspective
In her own words, Fernanda describes claiming space as an act of resistance, especially as a young woman of colour and self-taught artist. She notes that she has often had to create opportunities in places where they were not readily offered. The exhibition, she explains, is intended not only as her own space but as a space for anyone questioning where and how they can truly exist as themselves.
Linked documentary
Marlou Fernanda: A time for everything coincides with the release of the documentary Los van Nu-Nu (directed by Denise Janzée), which follows Fernanda over three years. The film will premiere at the Nederlands Film Festival this autumn and will also be screened at Wereldmuseum Rotterdam on 8 November 2025 in collaboration with Roffa Mon Amour.
Practical information
The exhibition opens on 10 October 2025 at Wereldmuseum Rotterdam and will run for a limited period.
Location and directions
Wereldmuseum Rotterdam is located at Willemskade 25, in the Scheepvaartkwartier area, close to the Erasmus Bridge. The area is known for its historic waterfront, cultural institutions, and easy tram and metro connections. Parking is available in nearby garages, and the location is a short walk from Leuvehaven metro station.
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