OpenArtExchange

Description

Let me tell you, OpenArtExchange is honestly one of those spots that feels a bit like stumbling into the lesser-known side of the art universe. If you’ve ever felt tired of the same Western names and galleries popping up everywhere, well, this is a breath of fresh air. It’s a place where you can actually engage with contemporary visual artists, especially from Africa and other non-Western backgrounds. If you ask me, that’s something Europe’s been craving—new, global perspectives in art that aren’t filtered through the usual suspects.

Started back in 2018 (which doesn’t sound long ago, but wow, so much has happened since…), OpenArtExchange manages to do a whole lot with its 600m² location. It sits right in the heart of Schiedam’s museum quarter, which I always find helps if you want to make a whole day (or weekend) of museum hopping. What strikes me every time is that they haven’t just gone for a “museum with pictures on walls” vibe—but instead, the place buzzes with actual connections between artists and visitors, both physically and digitally, thanks to their online platform. And to be honest, I really like that mix.

You’ll often come across exhibitions here that are fresh, bold, and kind of challenge your perception of what contemporary art is. The fact that most of these artists come from places usually underrepresented in the big European art scene? That, to me, is a massive plus. Also, I’ve seen families and kids walk in with that look of “Is this going to be boring?”—and leave talking excitedly about what they’ve just seen. That says a lot.

OpenArtExchange also jumps into the whole international fair circuit and brings those influences right back to Schiedam. Don’t be surprised if you’re chatting with an artist about a piece, and they’ve just flown in from Lagos or Nairobi to exhibit here. Gives it a real “global crossroads” vibe without feeling commercial or cold. If I could sum it up, I’d say: come expecting the unexpected and bring your curiosity.

Key Features

• 600m² gallery space with multiple exhibitions at a time—no crammed-in, overcrowded hallways, thank goodness!
• Focus on contemporary visual art by emerging and established non-Western artists. If you’re tired of Eurocentric galleries, you’ll be in heaven here.
• Events and workshops run throughout the year—sometimes hands-on, sometimes just sit-back-and-absorb, but always engaging. I once spent a Sunday here sketching with an artist from Ghana. Didn’t see that coming.
• Online platform means interaction doesn’t stop when you walk out the door. If you want to keep that conversation (or inspiration) going later, you totally can.
• Family-friendly space: they genuinely welcome kids—there’s nothing precious or off-limits about it. Expect a relaxed atmosphere where everyone’s curiosity gets taken seriously.
• Free Wi-Fi and clean restrooms. Honestly, if you’re gallery-hopping or traveling with kids, these two things are more important than people admit.
• Part of the buzzing museum quarter of Schiedam, so you can combine this with other sights nearby (I love making a self-guided art tour and stopping for coffee in between).
• Participates in big-name art fairs across Europe. This means what you see here is at the forefront of contemporary trends, not some back-in-time collection stuck on repeat.
• Welcoming staff—never that intimidating, judgmental vibe you sometimes get in fancy galleries. More like your curious friend who happens to know a ton about art.
• Regular rotation of exhibitions—so even if you’ve been before, there’s nearly always something new to catch (and I’ve been caught off guard more than once!).

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let’s get practical. Honestly, there’s no “bad” time to check out OpenArtExchange, because the gallery keeps its exhibitions rotating and brings in new artists and works often. That being said, each season does carry its own personality. Spring and autumn are my personal favorites—it’s not too packed, and the weather in Schiedam makes for pleasant walks around the museum quarter.

If you’re in the Rotterdam region during one of the main museum quarter events or local fairs, definitely try to pop in. I remember stumbling in during a winter art festival once, and being bowled over by the energy (not to mention the heated gallery—bliss after wandering the chilly streets). Summer’s also a good shout, mainly because everything feels lighter and more laid-back.

Tip: Weekdays are generally quieter, which I find makes for a way better experience—space to reflect, chat, even grab staff for a mini-tour if you’re lucky. If you like a bit of a crowd, weekends during exhibition openings are lively, sometimes with music, artists on site, or kid-friendly activities on the side. Keep an eye on their social pages for special events—sometimes they host events you’ll kick yourself for missing later.

How to Get There

First up, don’t let the thought of “Rotterdam region” throw you for a loop—Schiedam is just a hop, skip, and a jump from central Rotterdam. If you’re arriving by train, Schiedam Centrum station is the closest main stop, and from there it’s about a 15-minute stroll. Just follow the signs for the museum district and you really can’t miss that blend of old warehouses and modern galleries.

Public transport is solid—trams and buses run regularly, and if you’re a cyclist (this is the Netherlands, after all), there are bike lanes everywhere. I’ve zipped through Schiedam on bike before and found it charming (plus, parking’s a breeze compared to busy Rotterdam).

Driving’s also doable if you’re feeling adventurous, but parking around the museum quarter can be a bit of a scavenger hunt, especially on weekends. Pro tip: If you’re coming from out of town, consider parking at one of the less central lots and enjoying a quick walk in—there’s honestly something lovely about seeing Schiedam’s old mills and canals before you dive into the sharp-edged modern art inside.

Oh, and for anyone feeling extra energetic, I’ve actually walked from Rotterdam center on a bright spring day. Took around an hour, but totally worth it for the scenery and coffee stops on the way. It’s one of those walks that puts you in the mood for something creative.

Tips for Visiting

Here comes my favorite bit—those little nuggets you won’t find on a standard brochure but could totally make or break your trip.

• Check ahead for current exhibitions and events. Since showcases rotate regularly and sometimes feature interactive sessions or live talks, you might want to plan your visit around something that truly sparks your interest (who doesn’t want to meet an artist after seeing their work?).
• Bring the kids—really! This isn’t a “don’t touch the walls” kind of place. I’ve seen more than a few young art critics here, and the staff love engaging with them.
• Snap photos (where allowed), but don’t just view everything through your phone lens. Some pieces, especially installations, beg for a slow gaze (and you never know, you might catch something in a reflection you’d otherwise miss).
• Talk to the staff. They’re genuinely friendly, not just there to tick a box. I found out about a spontaneous artist Q&A just by chatting at the desk—one of those happy accidents you remember.
• Use the free Wi-Fi to share your experience—but maybe hold off till you’ve soaked it all in. Sometimes it’s nice to be offline and present, especially around powerful art that makes you think.
• Want lunch or a snack afterwards? The surrounding district’s packed with bakeries, small bistros, and coffee shops. Make it a full Schiedam day—gallery, then canal-side coffee and maybe a little window shopping.
• If you’re traveling with older family members or need an access-friendly route, the gallery’s on the ground floor and laid out with wide passages, making navigation much easier.
• Come with an open mind and, more importantly, an open heart—because these works challenge and, sometimes, stick with you long after you’ve left.
• Leave a little room in your budget, too. You may be tempted to pick up a one-of-a-kind piece or catalog (supporting emerging artists is always a win in my book).
• Above all, remember: art like this is meant to be a conversation, not a lecture. Dive in, question, reflect, and don’t be shy to ask what others see. You might leave with your mind changed, or at least your curiosity piqued.

So, if you’re craving art experiences that feel genuine, cultural bridges built with care, and a space where the unexpected is waiting in every corner, OpenArtExchange might just be your next “why didn’t I know about this sooner?” destination. Trust me, you’ll walk away with more than a few stories to

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