Faces of North Holland

History of Portraits

For a long time, portraits were only affordable for the wealthiest in society. Painted, drawn, printed, or sculpted portraits were costly. As a result, most people were never portrayed, and we don't see them in our museum collections.

New Faces Needed

To ensure that 21st-century portraits accurately reflect our time, we need new faces. This way, everyone can see themselves in the stories and faces displayed in the museum.

Collaboration with Frans Hals Museum

Together with the Frans Hals Museum, the Amsterdam Museum travelled through the province to co-create and collect new portraits. In the exhibition Faces of North Holland, you will see the untold stories from Aalsmeer to Texel.

Inspiration and Co-creation

Historical (group) portraits and stories from the province inspired the artists, residents, and organizations involved in Faces of North Holland. Co-creation—equal collaboration—with all partners was important in this project to create new portraits that contribute to a fuller picture of society. The results of the co-creations, including the portrait competition involving over a thousand people, are on display in the exhibition.