The exhibition ‘Forever Rotterdam’ shows images of post-war life in the Port of Rotterdam, shot by the photographer Daniël van de Ven (Rotterdam, 1929). As a photojournalist, Van de Ven captured many important moments during the years between 1947 and 1971, often commissioned by the Holland America Line. From the war brides travelling to Canada to join their lovers after the liberation in 1945, to the construction of the s.s. Rotterdam (1956-1959). Also shown are photographs of departing migrants, who were in search of a better life on the other side of the world, as well as the arrival and departure of many visitors to Rotterdam. Through Van de Ven’s lens, the twentieth-century Port of Rotterdam comes to life.

Stories from the Port

A selection of over thirty photographs – black and white, and some in colour – presents a retrospective of 25 years of Daniël van de Ven’s work. With a soft spot for the romance of the port, he thoroughly enjoyed this world between water, land and ships. He spent a lot of time on the Wilhelminakade, which was like a second home to him. Purposefully, Van de Ven set to work to construct an intimate portrayal of life in the port. He didn’t just photograph the port itself, but also captured passengers during (extra)ordinary moments on board the ships. Men standing at the railing while waving their families goodbye, and high-spirited women who can’t wait to be reunited with their lovers. Each photograph tells a story of its own. Some photographs speak volumes, while others present a mysterious image of life in the port. The stories behind these photographs will be revealed in the exhibition through a number of audio clips featuring the voice of Van de Ven.  

Daniël van de Ven

A selection of over thirty photographs – black and white, and some in colour – presents a retrospective of 25 years of Daniël van de Ven’s work. With a soft spot for the romance of the port, he thoroughly enjoyed this world between water, land and ships. He spent a lot of time on the Wilhelminakade, which was like a second home to him. Purposefully, Van de Ven set to work to construct an intimate portrayal of life in the port. He didn’t just photograph the port itself, but also captured passengers during (extra)ordinary moments on board the ships. Men standing at the railing while waving their families goodbye, and high-spirited women who can’t wait to be reunited with their lovers. Each photograph tells a story of its own. Some photographs speak volumes, while others present a mysterious image of life in the port. The stories behind these photographs will be revealed in the exhibition through a number of audio clips featuring the voice of Van de Ven. 

About the Holland America Line

The Holland America Line was founded in 1873 and is a typical Dutch shipping company that grew into one of the biggest of its sort in the world. The shipping company transported many migrants, tourists and a great variety of cargos. Today, the Holland America Line is a cruise company that is owned by an American enterprise based in Seattle. 

© Daniël van de Ven
© Daniël van de Ven

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  • The 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.

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