STRAAT Museum Tickets, Amsterdam

Yes, STRAAT Museum is definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in street art and urban culture. The museum is home to an impressive collection of street art from some of the world's most renowned artists, and the exhibitions are constantly changing, so there's always something new to see. The museum is also located in a vibrant part of Amsterdam, so visitors can easily combine a trip to the museum with exploring the surrounding neighbourhood.

STRAAT Museum is famous for its collection of street art, which includes works by internationally renowned artists such as Banksy, Shepard Fairey, and D*Face. The museum is also known for its unique approach to displaying street art, which involves using the walls of buildings in the surrounding neighbourhood as a canvas. This means that visitors to the museum can see street art not just inside the museum, but also on the streets outside. The museum has also played an important role in the development of Amsterdam's street art scene and has helped to promote the city as a destination for urban art enthusiasts.

• Admission to the museum: A ticket to STRAAT Museum includes entry to the museum's exhibitions, which feature a rotating collection of street art from around the world.
• Guided tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum, which is included in the price of admission. The tour provides insights into the art and artists on display, and is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of street art.
• Access to events: The museum hosts a range of events, including artist talks, workshops, and film screenings. Visitors with a ticket to the museum can attend these events free of charge.

• Murals: STRAAT Museum boasts a wide selection of large-scale murals created by internationally renowned street artists such as Shepard Fairey, D*Face, and Herakut.
• Stencils: Visitors can marvel at a diverse range of stencil art at STRAAT Museum, including works by the elusive Banksy and French street artist Jef Aerosol.
• Installations: The museum showcases a number of thought-provoking installations that use street art as a medium. Dutch artist Thijs Biersteker's "Memento Mori" installation is a standout piece that explores themes of mortality and the human condition.
• Graffiti: STRAAT Museum pays homage to the rich history of graffiti art and features works by pioneers of the art form such as Blade, Seen, and Lady Pink. These works offer an insight into the evolution of graffiti from its beginnings as a form of street rebellion to its recognition as a respected art form.
• Mixed media: The museum displays street art in a variety of forms, including sculpture, photography, and video. Visitors can see works that blend street art with other art forms, such as the captivating video installations of French artist JR.

Overall, STRAAT Museum offers an impressive selection of street art that showcases the diversity and creativity of the art form. Whether you are a long-time street art enthusiast or simply curious about this vibrant and expressive art form, a visit to STRAAT Museum is well worth it.

Guided tours are available at STRAAT Museum, which is led by experienced guides who provide visitors with insights into the history, techniques, and cultural significance of street art. These tours offer a deeper understanding of the exhibits and the artists behind them, making for a more enriching and engaging experience.

Photography is allowed inside STRAAT Museum, and visitors are encouraged to take photos of the exhibits. However, flash photography and tripods are not allowed, as they may damage the artwork or cause disruption to other visitors. Additionally, visitors should always be mindful of the artworks and avoid touching or leaning on them to prevent damage.

The history of street art in Amsterdam dates back to the 1970s and 80s when graffiti emerged as a form of self-expression for young people who were dissatisfied with the social and political climate of the time. The early graffiti artists in Amsterdam were influenced by the hip-hop culture that originated in the United States and were part of a larger global movement that sought to challenge dominant cultural norms and give a voice to marginalized communities.

In the 1990s, street art in Amsterdam began to evolve beyond graffiti and began to incorporate a wider range of techniques and styles. Artists began to experiment with stencils, wheat pasting, and installations, and the scene became more diverse and inclusive. Many artists also began to address social and political issues in their work, and street art became an important form of public commentary.

There are numerous famous pieces of street art in Amsterdam, some of which have become icons of the city's urban landscape. Here are a few notable examples:

• "I Amsterdam" Sign: This large red and white sign is an iconic landmark in the city, and it has become a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
• "Never Grow Up" Mural: Located in the Jordaan district, this mural by Dutch street artist, Super A, features a young boy floating in the air with a large, red balloon. It has become a popular spot for photos and is a symbol of childhood innocence.
• "Graffiti Hotspot" NDSM Wharf: This former shipyard in Amsterdam North has become a hotspot for graffiti artists, with large murals covering many of the buildings. The area is also home to festivals and events celebrating street art.
• "Space Invader" Mosaics: French street artist, Invader, has left his mark on Amsterdam with his signature pixelated mosaics, which depict characters from the classic arcade game, Space Invaders. The mosaics can be found throughout the city.
• "Blue Amsterdam" Mural: Located near the Rijksmuseum, this mural by Dutch artist, Stefan Thelen, features a blue elephant and a red bird soaring through the sky. The mural is a symbol of freedom and the power of the imagination.

Street art has undergone a significant evolution in Amsterdam over the years. Initially, street art was perceived as vandalism and was discouraged by the authorities. However, in the 1980s, the city of Amsterdam began to take a more liberal approach to street art, and it began to gain recognition as a legitimate art form.

In the early days, street art in Amsterdam was primarily limited to graffiti tags and simple murals. Over time, street artists began to experiment with different techniques and styles, incorporating stenciling, wheat pasting, and other forms of street art. In recent years, there has been a growing appreciation for street art in Amsterdam, with many artists receiving recognition and support from the city. Street art festivals and events have become popular, providing artists with opportunities to showcase their work and engage with the public.

Overall, street art in Amsterdam has evolved from a controversial and misunderstood form of expression to a celebrated and respected art form that is increasingly recognized as an important part of the city's cultural landscape.