Lighting Up Migrant Histories: Rotterdam's Fenix Museum of Migration
Rotterdam boasts a fresh art scene hotspot
Stepping foot in Rotterdam's dynamic Fenix warehouse, we uncover the Fenix Museum of Migration. This contemporary art museum, a testament to architectural mastery by Ma Yansong of MAD Architects, has just opened its doors in May 2025. marking MAD's first cultural venture in Europe, with migrant stories adorning its walls.
Architectural Marvel
The museum's centerpiece? The Tornado Staircase, a breathtaking double-helix staircase, sheer beauty crafted from gleaming stainless steel and wooden cantilevers. It whirls organically, spiraling all the way from the ground floor up to the rooftop, offering an unparalleled journey with panoramic views of the city[3][4][5].
Exhibition Galore
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by three major exhibitions: "The Family of Migrants," a captivating collection inspired by Edward Steichen's "The Family of Man," featuring 194 photographs hailing from 55 countries[3][4].
A Roof with a View
The rooftop platform, a 360-degree heaven, showcases Rotterdam's bustling skyline, underscoring the city's vibrant role in migration history and diverse cultural tapestry[5].
Historical Roots
Housed within a century-old warehouse, the museum stands as a symbol of the city's rich heritage of arrivals and departures. These historical in-and-outs continue to shape the city's modern identity and unique charm[5].
Seamless Collaboration
The Fenix Museum's creation unfolded through the combined efforts of Bureau Polderman and the Dream and Act Foundation, ensuring the museum's design and content strike a harmonious balance[3].
Settled at the heart of Rotterdam's historic harbor, the Fenix Museum of Migration captures the past, present, and future of global migration as it unfolds through art, architecture, and photography. A must-visit for anyone connecting with the ever-evolving narrative of human journeys.
Source: ntv.de, jwu/dpa
- Migration Stories
- Rotterdam
- Netherlands
- Art Museum
- Contemporary Design
Visitors to the Fenix Museum of Migration, nestled in Rotterdam's historic harbor, can gain insights into various employment policies and lifestyles of migrants through the exhibition "The Family of Migrants." This collection, reminiscent of Edward Steichen's "The Family of Man," features 194 photographs from 55 countries, illustrating the diverse experiences of migrants in their new homeland. The museum's community policy, designed in collaboration between Bureau Polderman and the Dream and Act Foundation, aims to create a harmonious balance between its design and content, ensuring the stories of migrants are sensitively portrayed.
