Open Call for the exhibition: 'Hear all voices'

Deadline for Submissions: April 18th‍
Exhibition Dates: June 22  to July 23, 2023

Treehouse NDSM is currently running an open call for its next exhibition, which will be on view in June and July 2023. Part of the exhibition will take place at the same time as the Over het IJ festival in Amsterdam NDSM. Together we would like to give food for thought about how to create a sustainable future through a more responsible and accountable governance. Treehouse NDSM aims to give artists the opportunity to present works that address the shortcomings of our democratic systems and speculate with different alternatives. Artists from all backgrounds and working in any medium are welcomed to apply as long as their projects fit the exhibition's theme. We will put more focus on applications from local artists.

Theme of the exhibition
The exhibition ‘Hear all voices’ aims to reflect on our democracies and speculate on alternative governance systems that take into account the immense complexity of our current social and economic structures. For too long our ways of government have remained unchanged despite its weaknesses they have shown in terms of inclusivity, accountability, transparency, environmental-responsibility, and social and climate justice. Exploration and experimentation through art can bring new imaginaries that may serve as a starting point to build better systems. 

Sometimes the dialogue between inhabitants and local powers can be challenging. Is it possible to make all voices heard? What other ways can we think of to better involve people in political decision-making? Would it be possible to include our senses and intuition instead of only our intellect? 

Throughout this event, various art workshops and side activities will be organised such as talks and debates with inhabitants from Amsterdam Noord, associations, and local politicians.

Selection of artists

A jury composed of cultural professionals, including some members of the Over het Ij festival, will select 10 artworks that bring different reflections on the topic of re-imagining our democracy. The artworks will be exhibited on the 100m2-mezzanine of Treehouse’s Pavilion. The jury will take into consideration the relevance to the theme, the medium used, and will be especially interested in giving a voice to artists from Amsterdam Noord. An artistic fee will be given to each artist participating in the exhibition if you get the grant we applied for.

Please keep in mind that Treehouse NDSM is not a traditional gallery space. Treehouse supports multi-disciplinary artists in bringing their projects to life by offering 100 individual and affordable studios for rent, as well as access to exhibition spaces and the opportunity of participating in a vibrant and collaborative artistic community. It is an artistic incubator where artists and audiences use their imagination to create their vision of the world. 

Apply now!