Education is an essential part of the Stedelijk Museum’s work. The Education and Outreach department is literally at the very heart of the museum, and helps wide-ranging audiences enjoy and be inspired by art. Visitors are invited to share their thoughts on modern and contemporary art and design. Educational activities encourage people – young and old – to look more closely, ask questions, start discussions and think about artistic, cultural and social themes – and inspire people to start making art too.

Education and Outreach respond to different audience interests and background knowledge. Visitors with little background knowledge often derive more enjoyment from actively experiencing art, when they have a chance to identify with art works and talk about it with others.

The Stedelijk Museum makes looking at art and design accessible, and acts as an intermediary in explaining the ideas behind and the meaning of modern and contemporary art and design. At the museum visitors develop visual skills and learn to trust them. And, once their interest has been aroused, museum docents, members of our education and outreach team and our library staff are there to offer more in-depth information.