AKI alumnus Bas Kosters presents solo exhibition at Rijksmuseum Twenthe

The exhibition invites visitors into Kosters’ colourful universe. His work, ranging from tapestries and sculptures to ceramics and drawings, forms a world that is both exuberant and intimate. Themes such as self-love, sensuality, vulnerability and queerness run like a thread throughout the work.

The world of Bas Kosters

Behind this colourful energy lies an exploration of how people maintain their footing in a world that places freedom and happiness centre stage, while also evoking feelings of pressure, displacement and competition. In his work, Kosters investigates how to create space for yourself. He also shows how imagination, humour and softness can form counterforces—especially in a time when nuance and humanity are under pressure.

The world of Bas Kosters does not remain within the walls of the museum. The monumental work It’s Me welcomes visitors in the museum café: a cheerful and idiosyncratic figure that shows heroism does not belong only to those traditionally seen as heroes.

Many Arms by Bas Kosters will be on view at Rijksmuseum Twenthe in Enschede from 14 February to 7 June.

Back at AKI

As part of the exhibition, Kosters also visited AKI. During a lecture, he spoke to students about his motivation and work, and engaged in conversation about his artistic practice.

Positive accreditation for AKI

The visit coincided with other good news for the academy. AKI recently received a positive accreditation. The review committee explicitly described the dedication of students, lecturers and heads of programme as exceptional.