paroolOct 17, 2026, 01:01

Dandy and contrarian Whistler cared little for anatomy in his portraits: harmony took precedence over reality

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is presenting a major retrospective on the British-American artist James McNeill Whistler, known for his nonconformist approach to traditional painting. The exhibition explores how Whistler prioritized aesthetic harmony over anatomical accuracy, frequently challenging critics and clients with his unconventional style.

Culture Amsterdam Netherlands

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Exhibition reveals how the former owners of Huis Willet-Holthuysen were deeply involved in the slave trade

An exhibition at Museum Huis Willet-Holthuysen in Amsterdam explores how the residence's 18th-century owners profited from the colonial slave trade. The display details how the city's canal district served as a major center for the plantation economy.

The first time I saw Cabaret, I thought writer Joe Masteroff was a visionary

This column discusses the film Spinoza and the musical Cabaret, both of which explore historical themes of freedom and social progress that remain relevant today. By reflecting on the fictionalized friendship between Spinoza and Rembrandt in 17th-century Amsterdam and the enduring messages of Cabaret, the author finds comfort in the persistence of these vital human ideals.

IDFA film festival sounds alarm over higher tourist tax: 'Amsterdam is pricing itself out of the market for cultural events'

The IDFA documentary festival warns that rising hotel VAT and tourist taxes are making it difficult to host international cultural events in Amsterdam. Festival director Cees van 't Hullenaar states that these costs are pricing the city out of the competitive event market.

The Amsterdam of children's book author Kevin Hassing: 'T's Teabar on the Jan Evertsenstraat is the best place to meet up'

Children's book author and actor Kevin Hassing discusses his favorite local spots in Amsterdam and the ongoing musical tour of his popular series. He highlights his preferred eateries and shops while noting his personal affinity for dachshunds in the city.

ITA turns The Copenhagen Trilogy away from 1930s realism: Theater is a live event

ITA's production of Tove Ditlevsen's The Copenhagen Trilogy avoids a realistic stage adaptation. The company emphasizes the importance of theater as a live, immediate event rather than a historical reenactment.