SAIL Amsterdam this year is more than a spectacle of sailing alone-it is a moment when the city comes together with the world. In that light comes Waves around the World as a breathing ode. Jimmy Nelson, Artist in Residence, presents his freely accessible, 6-meter-high installation in the Oosterdok, as a silent reminder of our shared connections through water.
You walk onto the platform and embark on a visual journey. Outside, monumental portraits of Dutchmen in costume reflect its roots: Between the Sea and the Sky captures our modern tradition. Inside unfolds a universe of cultures-from colorful faces to poetic masks-that makes us feel and think about refuge, identity and connected humanity.
"On the water, as a spectator, I grow to become part of a visual dialogue about human home, far away and near."
The art project "Waves Around the World" is freely accessible and will take place during SAIL Amsterdam from Wednesday, August 20 to Sunday, August 24. As the Tall Ships arrive, this artwork becomes an alternative meeting place: a silent stop where you reflect not only on maritime tradition, but also on our shared future. In addition, Nelson is working on-site to create new portraits of crew members of the Tall Ships-that can later be added to this living artwork.