The Holy Triangle is a special area in Oosterhout. It is one of the cultural-historical hotspots in the Province of North Brabant and designated as a State Protected Cityscape. The area takes its name from the three vital and still in use monastery complexes surrounded by large monastery gardens and estates. Here, in the Holy Triangle, we organize the h3h (holy triangle) biennial, a contemporary art event. The h3h biennial seamlessly connects and builds on the traditions of art and art crafts in the monasteries. This is done in cooperation with the three monasteries, art academies, schools and museums. The special cultural-historical landscape and religious context of the monasteries make the h3h biennial a unique spiritual experience.
Protected area
Tegen het einde van de vorige eeuw werd de druk steeds groter om het prachtige gebied, de Heilige Driehoek, dichtbij het centrum van Oosterhout, vol te bouwen. Therefore, in 2000 the Foundation Art in De Heilige Driehoek had been established. the foundation is committed to preserving the area with its special character, but also wants to strengthen it and give it a future. The three monastic communities are closely involved in the governance of the foundation and there is a large supportive network of friends. A collaborative Green and Management Plan has been implemented since 2008.
Once every two years an art biennial of international stature is organized, a biennial for art and contemplation. In 2015, a separate foundation was established for this purpose: Foundation for Art in the Holy Triangle.
Holy triangle biennial
The h3h biennial is an inspiring platform for artists and curators, both regional and (inter)national. A curatorial duo is selected for each biennial. In doing so, the foundation looks for a renowned and, in the context of talent development, a young, talented curator to curate the art program. The artists are also a mix of proven and emerging talent. Through the holy triangle biennials, we bring audiences, art and artists together in an inspiring and meditative environment. The h3h biennial ensures the preservation, awareness and renewal of the meaningful Holy Triangle area.
Theme
Elke h3h biënnale heeft een thema dat met zorg wordt gekozen. The first three biennials had as their theme the three main Christian virtues: faith, hope and love. The fourth edition is entitled: A Deeper Shade of Soul.
Arts Education
Special educational projects are organized around the h3h biennial, aimed at getting acquainted with contemporary art and the cultural history of the area. There are also special activities for students of art academies, conservatories and universities from the region and the rest of the Netherlands.