Biennale 2022, Maria-Roosen, Shelter2, Turn Magdalene turn 2021 photo: M.Keijser
Press release 1 September 2022
Once every two years, the Foundation Kunst in De Heilige Driehoek (“Art in the Heilige Driehoek”) organises a biennial of international stature. This special art route is situated in the area called De Heilige Driehoek, in Oosterhout, in the province of North Brabant. It is the only place in the Netherlands where a combination of three active monasteries can still be found. The unique monastery area is a source of inspiration for modern art exhibitions. The third biennial will be held from 3 June to 16 July 2023, under its new name h3h biennial. This edition will be titled Faith, after one of the three Christian virtues this series focusses on. The curators Hendrik Driessen (former director of Museum De Pont) and Rebecca Nelemans (an independent curator) will once again design the art route. Over the next few months, the selection of circa 25 artists will be revealed.
ABOUT THE THEME OF FAITH
The original meaning of “faith” goes back to the notions of trust and conviction, and is intricately connected with passion and compassion. We’re living in an age where multiple “truths” exist side by side, as free journalism and democratic principles increasingly enter the line of fire. This casts concepts like faith, hope and love in a new, broader perspective. Faith helps us find meaning in life and come to terms with its inevitable end. Faith is about the sensation it evokes, about being touched by the realisation of something deeper, or simply about bliss.
SELECTED ARTISTS
The selection of the roughly 25 artists for the third Biennial is based on the meaning of and interpretation of “Faith”. The environment of the three monasteries is fundamental to this – after all, the Biennial in Oosterhout in no museum exhibition. The curators attach great value to the connection established by the artist between their work and a specific space on the premises. The symbiosis emerging between the work and its location plays a defining part in our selection of artists.
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION KUNST IN DE HEILIGE DRIEHOEK
The Foundation Kunst in de Heilige Driehoek was established in 2015 by Foundation De Heilige Driehoek. The latter foundation is committed to preserving the unique character of the area, but also aims to strengthen it to ensure a healthy future.
An inspiring platform for contemporary artists and curators from the region, the country and abroad, the h3h biennial contributes to the reputation and preservation of De Heilige Driehoek. Its educational programme introduces pupils and students to art and our cultural heritage in an inspiring way.