De Stadshof Collection Foundation
A unique collection of ‘outsider art’ returns to the Netherlands
When the De Stadshof museum in the city of Zwolle closed in 2001, its collection was on loan to Ghent (Belgium). The time has now come for the artworks to return to the Netherlands. This is being organised in collaboration with the Museum van de Geest in Haarlem. Dioraphte is contributing towards the specialised art transport.
The De Stadshof Collection features a unique selection of what is known as ‘outsider art’. These are works created by talented artists working outside of the ‘official’ art world. While most art lovers acknowledge its value, very few museums dedicate space to it. The De Stadshof Collection ranks among the most influential and coherent collections of its kind internationally. During the past forty years, the collection has grown into a collection of some ten thousand works by more than five hundred artists.
Safeguarding heritage value
The relocation of Ghent’s Dr Guislain Museum to Haarlem means the collection will be more accessible to a Dutch audience once again. Dioraphte is also hoping to strengthen the profile of Museum van de Geest, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness about mental health. The collection helps to promote awareness, respect and understanding towards everyone, particularly those individuals considered outside the prevailing ‘norm’. The De Stadshof Collection Foundation remains the independent owner. By separating the museum from the collection this valuable art collection can remain intact under all circumstances. In this manner, the collection’s heritage value will be preserved for future generations.
