Schilderij Om Te Stelen, which translates to “Painting to Steal” in English, is a unique art project that challenges the traditional notions of ownership and possession in the art world. Created by Dutch artist Dries Verhoeven, Schilderij Om Te Stelen is an interactive installation that invites participants to take one of the paintings on display for free.
The project was first introduced in 2016 at the Oude Kerk in Amsterdam, where Verhoeven presented a collection of 30 paintings that were available for visitors to take home. The paintings were hung on the walls of the church, and visitors were encouraged to choose a painting that spoke to them and remove it from the wall. The only condition was that they had to leave a note explaining why they chose that particular painting.
The concept behind Schilderij Om Te Stelen is to challenge the traditional ideas of ownership in the art world and to explore the emotional and personal connections that people have with art. By allowing visitors to take a painting for free, Verhoeven creates a space for reflection on the value of art and the ways in which we engage with it.
The project also raises questions about the commodification of art and the role of money in the art market. By removing the barrier of price, Schilderij Om Te Stelen invites participants to consider the intrinsic value of art and the ways in which it can enrich our lives beyond its monetary worth.
Since its debut, Schilderij Om Te Stelen has traveled to various locations around the world, including museums, galleries, and public spaces. Each installation is unique, as the paintings on display are different for each exhibition. Participants are encouraged to engage with the artwork in a meaningful way and to reflect on their own relationship with art and creativity.
Overall, Schilderij Om Te Stelen is a thought-provoking and engaging art project that challenges our assumptions about art and ownership. By inviting participants to take a painting for free, Dries Verhoeven creates a space for dialogue and reflection on the value of art and the ways in which it shapes our lives.