Thanh Vo in 'πνεῦμα (Ἔλισσα)' at Stedelijk Museum

Danh Vo, a conceptual artist born in 1975, returns to the Stedelijk Museum for a new solo exhibition that adds new layers to his artistic quest. The exhibition "πνεῦμα (Ἔλισσα)" explores the interplay between power and human experiences, such as pleasure, pain and submission, and shows how lives and self-images are shaped by collective history and personal narratives. At the center is an ever-changing collection of objects, geographical references and historical elements that are slowly revealed through the choreography of the space. The attention to space and arrangement creates a unique mode of presentation that invites the visitor to reflect on identity and power.

This presentation is not his first collaboration with the museum; his works were already on view here in 2008, and since then the Stedelijk has owned two pieces from his collection. The current exhibition further explores previous themes such as religion, freedom and eroticism, showing how these elements intersect and converge in Vo's oeuvre. The exhibition was curated by Rein Wolfs and Claire van Els, with support from various funds such as the New Carlsberg Foundation and the Mondriaan Fund, underscoring the importance of this exhibition.

What sets this exhibition apart is the way the space itself becomes a dynamic part of the story. The arrangement of objects and the play with space create an experience that goes beyond the traditional exhibition. It is a choreography in which visitors experience the slow unveiling of the interrelationships between the exhibited elements. As a result, the reflection on power and identity takes on a tangible, almost physical presence.

What sets this exhibition apart is the way the space itself becomes a dynamic part of the story.

'πνεῦμα (Ἔλισσα)' therefore offers not only an artistic exploration of complex themes, but also shows how art can function as a medium to connect personal and historical realities. The exhibition highlights art's role as a space for dialogue about freedom, identity and collective memory, with a site that invites deeper contemplation and conversation. As a result, Danh Vo's work adds a direct and timely tone to the cultural landscape within this exhibition space.