Kick-off: Threads of our Dutch Slavery Past

North Holland is set to welcome an impressive new art project: a monumental tapestry measuring no less than 35 metres long and 3 metres high. The project, Threads of our Dutch Slavery Past, brings together stories, perspectives and histories in a powerful and unifying work of art. The project is launched at Framer Framed on 1 May 2026.

The initiative was originally launched in Groningen by cultural entrepreneur Ricardo Burgzorg and has since been implemented in seven provinces. With its arrival in North Holland, the project enters a new chapter, centred on local stories and community involvement.

The design for the North Holland tapestry was created by artist Raul Balai and is based on historical research into the traces of the province’s colonial and slavery past. The search for the stories hidden within North Holland and how they continue to have an impact today serves as the starting point for the collaborative creative process.

Residents from across North Holland are invited to sign up to take part. At workshops in locations including Alkmaar, Amsterdam, Haarlem, Hoorn, Purmerend and Zaandam, participants come together to create sections of the tapestry under guidance. Each location makes its own contribution to the whole, bringing together local histories, personal perspectives and collaborative research in textile form.

Various textile techniques are used; no experience is necessary and there is plenty of opportunity to learn, experiment and meet one another. The aim is to make the stories visible and tangible by reflecting together on a shared past, and to recognise and articulate hidden connections.

The kick-off takes place from 14:30 to 17:00 (doors open from 14:00). Please register via this link.

Info & Credits

This event is in Dutch. Admission is free, pay what you can. Do you also think art should be free and accessible? Please consider supporting us with a donation when registering or by becoming a Framer Framed Friend!

The event may be photographed and filmed. Kindly let us know in advance if you prefer not to have your picture taken. For seated programmes, places are always made available for wheelchair users. Please speak to the host before the programme begins.

Framer Framed is supported by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science; Amsterdam Fund for the Arts; Municipality of Amsterdam; and VriendenLoterij Fonds.

Location

Framer Framed
Oranje-Vrijstaatkade 71
1093 KS, Amsterdam