Events — Mar 28, 2026

Erwin Olaf believed in art as an act to explore and defend freedom. In his work, he took a stand, asked questions, and made social tensions visible—then, and still recognizable now. Freedom requires engagement. Join the conversation during Freedom Now about art, emancipation, and defending acquired freedoms. We will discuss activism then and now. What values were at stake? What freedoms had to be fought for? In this debate, experiences and perspectives meet.

Price
Museumticket + €3,-
Location
Auditorium
Time
Mar 28, 3 pm until 5 pm
Main language
Dutch
Admission
Book ticket

Based on the work and legacy of Erwin Olaf, the Erwin Olaf Foundation and the Stedelijk Museum bring together different generations: young activists from Erwin Olaf Magazine, representatives of human rights organizations, and the public. In this debate, experiences and perspectives meet. What can generations learn from each other about engagement, resistance, and responsibility? And what does this era demand of us? 

Activism is inextricably linked to a vibrant and democratic society. It challenges existing structures, exposes injustice, and encourages change. Especially at a time when social tensions are increasing, it is essential that people continue to speak out and engage in dialogue with each other about the world in which we want to live. Activism is constantly changing: themes shift, forms evolve, and strategies are reinvented by each generation.

The exhibition Erwin Olaf –– Freedom shows how art can play a powerful role in activism. In his work, Erwin Olaf used images to portray his social concerns, ask questions, and open up dialogue. Art offers space for nuance, emotion, and imagination, and acts as a connecting language between generations. 

During Freedom Now, we explore how themes such as freedom and emancipation have taken shape over time. Based on the work and legacy of Erwin Olaf, the Erwin Olaf Foundation and the Stedelijk Museum bring together different generations: young voices from Erwin Olaf Magazine, representatives of human rights organizations, and the public. Together, we will discuss what emancipation meant then, how it is being fought for today, and what responsibility that places on all of us. 

CREDITS

Image 1: Erwin Olaf, Palm Springs, American Dream, Self-Portrait with Alex I, 2018 © Estate Erwin Olaf, courtesy Galerie Ron Mandos Amsterdam