Young Amsterdammers explore art and identity through future-focused project
In March 2025, 72 students from IMC Weekendschool in Amsterdam Noord and Zuidoost embarked on a creative journey exploring the theme “The Future of Amsterdammers.” Over four weeks, these 10- to 11-year-olds immersed themselves in the world of visual arts, guided by four contemporary artists and supported by Royal Talens Foundation materials.
From Noord to Zuidoost...
Each class tackled a unique research question, translating their ideas into collective artworks. In Amsterdam-Noord, students worked with artist Baukje Duin to create self-portraits and handprints using printmaking techniques, reflecting on how people might connect in the future. Another group collaborated with Anouschka Boswijk to imagine futuristic transportation in a piece titled “Vehicle Soup.”
...four artistic visions of tomorrow
In Zuidoost, Tom van Veen led a class in painting a tablecloth using materials from their own neighborhood — a social artwork that captures the essence of daily life. Meanwhile, Carmen Schabracq helped students envision themselves 25 years from now, combining their individual portraits into one cohesive piece.
From the classroom to the museum
The results of their efforts will be showcased in the exhibition Refresh 3: Imagine the Future at the Amsterdam Museum, opening with a special children’s event on July 10, 2025. The exhibition will run until November 30, with free admission for all participating students and their families.
Learning artistic skills and social reflection
Throughout the project, students not only learned artistic techniques — from color theory to paint mixing and papier-mâché — but also engaged in meaningful conversations about their city, their dreams, and the changes they hope to see.
The project was made possible through the support of partners including Stichting Amsterdam 750, AMVJ Fonds, Ars Donandi, and Royal Talens. The artists involved were:
- Baukje Duin (1971)
- Anouschka Boswijk (1992)
- Tom van Veen (1995)
- Carmen Schabracq (1988)
About IMC Weekendschool
By empowering young voices through art, IMC Weekendschool continues to foster curiosity, creativity, and a sense of belonging in the next generation of Amsterdammers.
