Many loving arms – Rijksmuseum Twenthe
Major retrospective 10 years of autonomous work in Enschede
On 14 February 2026, the exhibition Bas Kosters – Many loving arms: the first museum retrospective of my autonomous work from the last ten years opens in Rijksmuseum Twente.
The presentation offers a rich display where textile art, sculptures, ceramics, costumes, installations and drawings converge in an opulent world focusing on self-love, queerness, hope, sensuality and safety. In my work I aim to unify and create a safe space for others and myself.
In Enschede – where I studied at the AKI – the influential series, including such works as An Exercise in Joy, The Divine Series, Safe Me and My House is on Juicy Street are featured. The exhibition not only shows my lavish and colourful works but also the sensitive and intimate side of my work.
14 February 2026 – 7 June 2026
Rijksmuseum Twenthe
Lasondersingel 129
7514 BP Enschede
Bas Kosters’ world – in two chapters – From place of birth to major retrospective
This autumn and the spring of next year, my autonomous work forms the focus of two solo exhibitions: in Dat Bolwerck, home to arts and thoughts, in my native Zutphen and in Rijksmuseum Twenthe in Enschede, the city where I laid the foundation for my artistic career at the AKI. Together, the two museums sketch a multifaceted portrait of me as an artist shaped by the world of fashion and now fully dedicated to creating autonomous visual works with a social significance.
The exhibitions complement each other in perspective and tone: from a personal and intimate narrative in Zutphen to a museum retrospective in Enschede. From October 2025 until June 2026, you are welcome to experience the world of Bas Kosters in its full breadth and depth – accessible, compelling and relevant.
