‘I'm really looking forward to working at the internationally renowned Princessehof. It's going to be wonderful to make acquisitions for it that also enrich the National Collection, and to create exhibitions that are relevant and important for the Netherlands, and internationally. I also want to continue the policy that was initiated by my predecessor Tanya Rumpff, by consistently devoting attention to contemporary ceramics. That is really what makes the Princessehof truly unique,’ says Wendy Gers. Director Kris Callens is proud of the appointment: ‘Wendy has very innovative and inclusive ideas in the field of acquisitions and exhibitions. She has earned her spurs as a curator, conservator and publicist, and brings a very diverse international network to the table. With Wendy on board, the Princessehof can fully live up to its ever-increasing role as a nationally high-profile venue for contemporary ceramics.’
Wendy Gers
Wendy Gers studied art history in South Africa and has a PhD from the University of Sunderland (United Kingdom). She has worked as a curator at museums in South Africa and Spain, and has contributed to exhibitions and ceramics biennales in China, Israel, Taiwan, France and Belgium. She has also been a (guest) lecturer at universities and colleges in France, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics
The Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics – the only national museum in the Northern Netherlands – is housed in an 18th-century city palace, which is also the birthplace of M.C. Escher. From imperial Chinese porcelain, beautiful Art Nouveau ceramics and Delftware to works by modern and contemporary artists and designers: the topical and relevant stories the museum tells are inspired by objects such as these from its high-quality collection. The collection has some indisputable highlights, such as an imperial Ming vase, one of the few remaining Ru bowls and a sculpture by Karel Appel. In addition to the permanent presentation From East and West, the museum hosts high-profile exhibitions with contemporary presentations such as In Motion: Ceramic Reflections in Contemporary Art and Human After All. The second floor of the museum, features works by contemporary artists and designers, including Jennifer Tee, Olivier van Herpt, Babs Haenen, Floris Wubben, Jólan van der Wiel and Anne Wenzel.
