'Opposites | Differently Connected' exhibition at Slot Loevestein

In a world full of differences, polarization seems inevitable. People don't always agree with each other. There's nothing wrong with that. But when us-side thinking becomes hostile, it is not without risk. For the new exhibition "Opposites" Rijksmuseum Slot Loevestein and the Humanistisch Verbond have joined forces.

To what extent is the Netherlands today actually polarized? And what can we learn from past polarization in our time? In the exhibition Opposites you will discover your own role in polarization and how we can connect with each other despite our differences. Spoken word artist Derek Otte wrote an audio tour especially for the exhibition 'Once upon a time... And once upon a time'.

Historical clash
The phenomenon of polarization is not new. In the seventeenth century, two groups were diametrically opposed as opposites. Their disagreement over politics and religion almost became a civil war. People no longer see each other as fellow human beings, but as enemies. The consequences of this polarization affect many lives.
Slot Loevestein, as a state prison, witnessed those consequences: nine ministers are imprisoned here for life. For three of them, including Arnoldus Geesteranus, it was exactly 400 years ago.

Modern context
The exhibition also takes a look at the present. The Humanistisch Verbond highlights the current polarization in the Netherlands. With stimulating questions and statements you are challenged to think about your own points of view and how they have been formed. The exhibition shows that stories have different sides. But above all, that people are more than their opinions.

Practical information
The exhibition is on the second and third floors of the castle and a visit to it is included in your entrance ticket (museum card valid). The exhibition is approachable, light-hearted and personal: a simple story about a rather complicated subject. There is also an active children's line running through the exhibition, giving children an understanding, at their own level, of how you view the world.

In addition, culture lovers are also catered for with an extra layer of in-depth information and a host of peripheral activities organized. Among other things, there will be movie nights and on May 3 there will be "an evening with Jort Kelder and Maarten Prak."
The exhibition will be on view from March 28, 2024 through March 2, 2025 at Rijksmuseum Slot Loevestein.