I’m a big fan of street art and I’m always on the lookout for them when I travel. I’m lucky to live in Amsterdam as there’s a vibrant street art scene, from countless random pieces to huge, commissioned pieces on the sides of buildings. In addition to works that can be found on the street, the STRAAT international museum for graffiti and street art houses a spectacular collection under one roof, in my book, a must-visit for street art enthusiasts!
Street art in Amsterdam
There’s loads of street art scattered across Amsterdam. Much of the new work can be found in the districts outside the city centre, such as Noord (North), Oost (East) and Zuidoost (Southeast). Furthermore, there are two excellent museums to appreciate street art: STRAAT and Moco (with works by famous artists such as Banksy).
STRAAT Museum
When I read about the opening of an international street art museum called STRAAT, I knew I had to visit it as soon as possible!
Located in the very hip NDSM district of Amsterdam North (an old industrial area of the city that’s been completely rejuvenated), the museum turned out to be a visual feast!
The STRAAT international street art museum resides in an old warehouse with 8,000 square meters of floor space and a ceiling 25 meters high! There are five themed sections: Personal, Aesthetical, Emphatic, Grounded and Conscious. It truly is a spectacular space with many intriguing pieces by artists from around the world. Walking around to see the huge pieces is an incredible visual experience!
Read about street art around the world
If you’re a fan of street art, you have to visit the STRAAT museum. Some may say that street art belongs in the street but I’m thrilled that there’s also a museum where street art in its many forms can be appreciated, and the venue is certainly impressive! Get your tickets here.
NDSM street art
The area around STRAAT Museum is also home to loads more street art as well as cafés, restaurants, shops, artist studios and galleries. I recommend strolling around to admire the cool modern architecture and hip urban atmosphere.
How to get to STRAAT Museum
Getting to STRAAT in the NDSM district is a treat on its own. Take the free ferry from behind the Amsterdam Central Station to NDSM Werf (the pier that’s furthest left) and enjoy the 15-minute ride across the harbour. The museum is a few minutes’ walk away from the ferry stop.
Just been. Inspirational, the whole area. When I think of some of the old steel mill buildings we’ve lost in the last 40 years in my home town (Rotherham/Sheffield), it just goes to show how devoid of imagination we are now in the UK when it comes to urban regeneration?