The impact of art on mental health
Studies from around the world have indicated that engagement with art can have a positive effect on mental health. According to these studies, a visit to a museum can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The benefits can be observed as quickly as 35 minutes into a museum visit. Nationale-Nederlanden has organised the NN Kunstfestival to further investigate this link between art and mental well-being, especially in light of recent data showing an increase in mental health-related absenteeism in the Netherlands.
Accessibility and inclusivity in art appreciation
The festival aims to make art accessible to all by offering discounted museum tickets and a diverse range of programmes. Museums across the Netherlands, including those in Rotterdam, are participating in the NN Kunstfestival.
Featured exhibitions in Rotterdam
Kunsthal Rotterdam | Ai Weiwei - In search of humanity
Kunsthal Rotterdam will host an extensive exhibition on Ai Weiwei, the renowned Chinese artist and human rights activist. The exhibition will delve into Ai Weiwei's life, his early years in exile with his father, and his 2011 imprisonment. The artworks reflect his ongoing quest for humanity. The exhibition will be open for preview on Saturday, 30 September.
Kunsthal Rotterdam | Ai Weiwei - In search of humanity
Nederlands Fotomuseum | Ad van Denderen & Kunst(k)uurtje
Starting 30 September, the Nederlands Fotomuseum will feature an exhibition on Ad van Denderen, showcasing his evolution as a documentary photographer from the 1960s to the present. Visitors can also join the Kunst(k)uurtje (Art Hour) with Ageeth de Waal, a medical faculty teacher at VU University, to explore the health benefits of engaging with art. The programme welcomes everyone, regardless of their level of experience or knowledge in art.
Nederlands Fotomuseum | Ad van Denderen & Kunst(k)uurtje
How to get there
Directions to Kunsthal Rotterdam and Nederlands Fotomuseum
Both museums are conveniently located in the Museum Park area, easily accessible by public transport or by car. The area is known for its cultural vibrancy and beautiful park settings.
