By means of inventive designs and models, very diverse film material, patents and refined drawings it becomes clear why and how the Dutch invent and innovate. In a surprising way the exhibition shows how all sorts of problems have been solved over the centuries, how new products are tested and how small designs can change a society. Young and old visitors are encouraged not only to test models and to improve products but also to come up with their very own innovative plans.
Voyage of Discovery
The Kunsthal takes visitors on a voyage of discovery alongside Dutch products and techniques. Together with models and designs from TU Delft, the collection of patents and drawings from the National Archives from the period between 1580 and 1990 forms an impressive survey of all that Dutch inventors and designers have created over the centuries. Drawings by famous inventors like Simon Stevin and Jan Adriaanszoon Leeghwater are put on display next to inventions like the ever so ingenious and wind firm SENZ storm umbrella and the emergency telephone pole by industrial designers from Delft. In a wind turbine the visitors are invited to test whether the umbrella is really as storm proof as it is claimed to be. Moreover, an ingenious machine is present at the exhibition to teach them how to ‘swim'.
Publication
To the exhibition a special hardback edition of Quest History is to appear: a book entitled ‘Inventors in The Netherlands, Four Centuries of Patents' (ISBN 9789460440137, price € 16,95).
Partners
Nationaal Archief
TU Delft
VSB Fonds
About your visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Skip listThe Kunsthal is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs. The Kunsthal Café opens half an hour earlier, so you can visit from 9:30 hrs until half an hour after closing time. Check the current opening hours.
Yes, you need to book a ticket with a start time in advance. This also applies if you have a Museum card, Rotterdam pass, or VriendenLoterij VIP Card. This way, you are guaranteed admission and we can ensure that your visit is as pleasant as possible. Book your start time.
Yes, with an online ticket, you can visit all the exhibitions that are on display on the date of your visit. You can also stay as long as you like. You are welcome at the Kunsthal from your designated start time until closing time. Book your start time.
In de Kunsthal Rotterdam zijn altijd meerdere wisselende en contrastrijke tentoonstellingen tegelijk te zien. Een volledig overzicht van alle actuele tentoonstellingen vind je op de tentoonstellingspagina.