ABN AMRO main partner of Yayoi Kusama exhibition at Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam

Yayoi Kusama is one of the most influential artists of our time. She has developed a universal visual language of her own and is recognised around the world for her iconic polka dots, mirror rooms and immersive installations. Through work exploring themes such as self-expression, freedom and autonomy, she has become one of the world’s most influential artists.

Making art accessible to a broad audience

The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to bring new audiences into contact with art. As the main partner, ABN AMRO is supporting not only the exhibition itself, but also a range of educational and social initiatives. These include the Kusama Kids Festival, free teaching materials for schools, an audio tour for adults and workshops for children through ABN AMRO Foundation. Through the Youth Fund for Sports & Culture, ABN AMRO is also making tickets available to families in Amsterdam whose financial situation does not always allow museum visits.

An artist who inspires millions

Sander Bestevaar, ABN AMRO’s Head of Partnerships, Events & Foundation: “At ABN AMRO, we believe that everyone’s story matters. Art helps us look at social themes differently and understand one another better. It can spark new ideas, start conversations and inspire people to discover their own path. That is why, together with the Stedelijk, we strive to increase the visibility of female artists and make art accessible to a broad audience. Yayoi Kusama shows how one person can inspire millions of people around the world. With this main partnership, we aim to make sure that children, families and people for whom museum visits are less accessible can also experience her story. Because every new beginning, no matter how small, can have a big impact.”

Greater impact together

This main partnership builds on the long-standing collaboration between ABN AMRO and the Stedelijk Museum. ABN AMRO has previously supported exhibitions by female artists and organises the annual ABN AMRO Art Award at the Stedelijk. With the Yayoi Kusama exhibition, ABN AMRO and the Stedelijk are continuing their shared mission – to make art and culture accessible, bring new perspectives into view and give more people the opportunity to be inspired by the power of creativity.

Rein Wolfs, Director of Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam: “The Yayoi Kusama exhibition presents the work of one of the most influential artists of our time. Thanks to our collaboration with ABN AMRO, we can develop a broad educational programme and reach even more children, families and schools. Together, we are increasing the social impact of this remarkable exhibition.”

Image: Yayoi Kusama in 'Yellow Tree / Living Room' during the Aichi Triennale in 2010 © YAYOI KUSAMA. Thanks to Ota Fine Arts and David Zwirner