# Groninger Museum's New Artistic Vision Reconnecting contemporary art with postmodern architecture at its core. - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-08-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b0391127-b79c-4faf-8898-0b4b95566a03 ## A Postmodern Icon Opened in 1994, the Groninger Museum consists of bridge-connected pavilions designed by three distinct architects. Alessandro Mendini's yellow tower, Philippe Starck's metal cylinder, and Coop Himmelb(l)au's deconstructivist structure create a unique postmodern architectural landmark. The museum occupies a strategic canal island location linking Groningen's main station to the city center. ## New Artistic Direction Artistic director Roos Gortzak, who took office in February 2025, is restructuring the museum's programming with a renewed focus on contemporary art. The new season starting in September aims to revive the spirit of the 1990s when contemporary art was central to the programming. Gortzak describes this approach as 'back to the future,' aligning with the museum's DNA. ## Architectural Dialogue Gortzak bases the curatorial approach on three architectural values: experimental, interdisciplinary, and collective. She argues the building's diverse architectural voices illuminate today's pluralistic society. The unconventional design where visitors descend rather than ascend to exhibition spaces reflects this philosophy. ## Diversity Emphasis The new program prioritizes works by women and non-binary artists. Acknowledging the museum was designed by four male architects, Gortzak aims to correct historical representation imbalances. This 'your difference is welcome here' approach parallels the building's architectural diversity. ## Visitor Experience The intentionally disorienting layout references contemporary art's challenging nature. Gortzak believes even discomfort can be a positive experience. The design supports the idea that art is everywhere, waiting to be discovered. ## Sector Challenges Gortzak notes museums face 'a very difficult moment' with declining attendance and funding pressures. Increasing leisure and information options require museums to reposition themselves. The Groninger aims to model innovative responses to these challenges. ## Global Impact Though less famous than Gehry's Guggenheim Bilbao, Gortzak believes the museum's architecture and programming deserve wider recognition. Drawing on 25 years of curatorial experience, she plans to elevate its international profile, highlighting its potential to bridge cultures. ## Future Vision The Groninger Museum continues pushing contemporary art boundaries while staying true to its architectural identity. Under Gortzak's leadership, it aspires to be more than an exhibition space - a platform fostering societal dialogue. This approach merges postmodern architecture's spirit with 21st-century art concepts. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/08/20/groninger-museum-roos-gortzak-interview/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._