Is there such a thing as the soul of Southwest Friesland, the Siel fan Súdwest in local parlance? If so, what is it and where – or in whom – can it be found? To find out, nine museums in Southwest invited nine artists to take up residence for two weeks near the museums and be inspired by their surroundings. On their search, they unearthed their own interpretations of the soul of the region and translated them into works of art spanning the disciplines of textile and video art, photography, sculptures and installations. Part of Arcadia’s programme, this project fuses art and culture to connect and surprise.
what is there to see?
Head to Bolsward’s De Tiid Museum to admire Heleen Langkamp’s multimedia installation with video, or visit the Casemate Museum in Kornwerderzand to marvel at sculptures by Julia Eichler. Caroline Penris presents photography and film at the Model Railway Museum in Sneek. Cora Jongsma and Ernest Bessems were invited by Warkums Erfskip and the Jopie Huisman Museum, where they exhibit feltscapes (Cora) and an installation with ceramics and a performance (Ernest) in St Gertrude’s Church. Thea Zweerink used drawings to craft an installation at ‘t Tsiispakhûs in Wommels, while a wooden installation from Sibe Jan Kramer now graces Museum Houtstad IJlst. At Museum Hindeloopen, Madelief van de Beek weaves an immersive story with video and scenography. Finally, Gitte Brugman’s artistic area analysis at the Frisian Maritime Museum incorporates with photography and audio.
programme and art trail
From 17 May to 24 August 2025, visitors can take in these works of art in and around the museums, all of which are connected by an art trail take that takes guests on a dynamic journey through stories, art and communities. So is there such a thing as the Siel fan Súdwest? Find out for yourself.