frisians

Tough, resilient and self-assured: all qualities generally attributed to Frisians. It’s a cliché of course, or is there some truth to it? When can you actually call yourself a Frisian?

The exhibition shows how Frisian identity has been viewed over the centuries. Classic portraits show the Frisian elite and give a face to dignitaries and celebrities. Artists also began portraying ordinary people from the beginning of the 20th century.

Through the centuries, countless artists have documented the Frisian landscape. The meadows, lakes and ever-present winds have an unmistakable effect on the inhabitants of this region.

What do these portraits tell us about the Frisians? Is Friesland really so unique, or is it first and foremost a part of the Netherlands, Europe and the world?