Fenix is the long-awaited art museum about migration. The first of its kind in the world. The special museum was partly established by Stichting Droom en Daad. Link opens an external page. The location of the museum was not chosen randomly: it is located in the San Fransiscoloods from 1923, once the largest transshipment warehouse in the world.
The monumental warehouse stands on the quays from which millions of people departed. They sought happiness in countries like Canada, Australia, and the USA. Migrants traveled from all over Europe to Rotterdam to make the crossing for a new and better life. But here, migrants also arrived who stayed, for example from Cape Verde or China. And in the 1950s, thousands of Moluccans landed here.
Migration as a theme
There are artworks and photographs on display from all over the world, with migration as the theme. Or as Anne Kremers, director of Fenix, says: ‘Migration stories are the beating heart of Fenix.’ For example, a refugee boat from Lampedusa is on display, and a piece of the Berlin Wall. But also a painting by Willem de Kooning. The born Rotterdammer, who left as a stowaway on a ship to New York in 1926, also in search of happiness. The painting now hangs in the place where he – somewhere on these quays – boarded.
Showpiece
The Tornado is the centerpiece and the showpiece of the new museum. When you enter the museum, you cannot miss it. It is a double-twisted staircase made of stainless steel and wood, towering 30 meters high through the museum. On top, you can enjoy a view of Rotterdam like you have never seen before.
The museum and the striking spiral staircase are designed by MAD Architects from China. Another first for Rotterdam: they are the first Chinese architectural firm to design a museum in Europe.
Suitcase Maze
Another highlight in the museum is the Suitcase Maze. This is made up of 2,000 donated suitcases that Fenix has collected over the years. There are suitcases from South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, which return to their original departure port with a place in the museum. In the maze, visitors can listen to personal stories via audio fragments.
Square: accessible city square
Square is a new and covered city square of 2,000 square meters. Here, the neighborhood (Katendrecht) and the world come together. Every day there is something different, and everyone is welcome. It is a place where you can read a book, do homework, or just sit down for a while. At the kiosk, newspapers from all over the world can be found.
Rotterdammers can program events at Square themselves. From celebrations and cultural festivals to performances and markets. Twice a week you can join for a meal. There are also language walks and Language Cafés, where everyone can practice Dutch in an accessible way – without reservation. Just join in.
Opening
The festive opening show on Thursday, May 15, was accessible to everyone. Early in the afternoon, it was quite busy on the quays. After much music and dance, Queen Máxima opened the museum with a gong sound.
After the official moment, everyone was allowed to explore Fenix for free. Many Rotterdammers followed the route along the highlights of the building and the collection and were among the first to climb the Tornado.
From Friday, May 16, the museum is open to everyone. You need a ticket for this. With the Rotterdam pass. Link opens an external page you can go for free.
You will find the museum at Paul Nijghkade 5. For more information and opening hours, visit the website: Fenix.nl. Link opens an external page.