‘Blue-White Ceramic Exhibition’ opens in Amsterdam, honoring Türkiye-Netherlands ties

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Türkiye-Netherlands Friendship Treaty, the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE) in Amsterdam has launched a captivating exhibition titled “On the Road to Porcelain: Blue-White.”

The exhibition, which brings together 57 artists from Italy, the Netherlands and Türkiye, showcases exquisite blue-and-white ceramic pieces, reflecting a tradition steeped in history and culture.

Century of friendship celebrated through art

Supported by Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the exhibition has been curated by professor Candan Dizdar Terwiel and Meral Ozturk.

The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Türkiye’s Ambassador to The Hague Selcuk Unal, Amsterdam Consul General Mahmut Burak Ersoy, Cultural Counsellor Pinar Bilgen Ermis and several of the exhibiting artists, alongside a host of distinguished guests.

Historical Türkiye-Netherlands friendship finds cultural expression

During the opening, Ambassador Unal highlighted the multifaceted nature of the Türkiye-Netherlands relationship. “Beyond alliances, friendship, and trade, the ties between our nations have been enriched by cultural exchanges. From Ankara mohair and Turkish carpets influencing Dutch and Flemish paintings to tulips and, as we see today, ceramics, these elements are striking cultural symbols of our longstanding relationship,” said Unal.

He further emphasized that ceramics represent a blend of history, culture and innovation. saying: “Ceramics have been a cherished art in Türkiye for centuries. From the tiles of the Seljuk and Ottoman empires to contemporary creations, there exists a rich tradition. The vivid blue and white designs of Iznik ceramics not only adorned mosques and palaces, but became emblematic of Türkiye’s cultural heritage.”

Dutch-delftware: Symbol of global trade, cultural exchange

Ambassador Unal also drew attention to the Netherlands’ contribution to the world of ceramics, recalling how Delftware emerged in the 16th century, inspired by Chinese porcelain.

“The blue-and-white ceramic designs reflect the impact of global trade and cultural exchange, underscoring the interconnectedness of our world,” he stated.

Inspiration from centuries-old artistic tradition

Professor Terwiel elaborated on the historical roots of the “blue-white” concept, explaining that the exhibition draws inspiration from the spread of cobalt blue, which originated in 14th-century China.

She emphasized that the exhibition units works from local artists in Italy and the Netherlands with those of Turkish creators, fostering an artistic dialogue across borders.

Running under the theme “Respect for the Past, Gift for the Future,” the exhibition celebrates a century of friendship through the timeless art of ceramics. Visitors can explore the exhibit at YEE Amsterdam from Oct. 26 to Nov. 25, offering a unique opportunity to witness how art can bridge nations and cultures across generations.