Women of Amsterdam - an ode
Co-write history so together we can make it richer
Will you participate?
Were you aware that history is mostly told from a male perspective? The Amsterdam Museum believes it is high time to change this, with your help. By making an ode to a woman who has contributed significantly to Amsterdam, you can enrich the city’s history! This ode will become part of the Amsterdam Museum’s collection. We will create an exhibition using the most outstanding contributions, as well as a book, performance, podcasts, and a television series.
Leading by example are Lize Korpershoek, Hedy d’Ancona, Imane Valk, Tammie Schoots, and Ellen Brudet, who have already written an ode.
Women from now and then
Women are important to the story of the city of Amsterdam. Both in the present and the past. But these stories are not always told, and their names are not always mentioned. Did you know the Amsterdamse Bos was designed by a woman? Perhaps your mother or grandmother also made a difference to the city. The Amsterdam Museum is seeking these stories! With your help, we hope to write more women into the history of Amsterdam by creating an ode - a letter, video, sound recording, photograph, drawing, poem, or other format - to a woman who has a connection with Amsterdam.
Writing an ode
Who should not be missing from the history books? A woman who lived in, built on, and cared for Amsterdam and its inhabitants—whether it was a few centuries ago or just last month. A woman who arrived here from far away, or actually from nearby. A woman who inspires you and deserves to be recognized. View tips.
What should I consider?
- The format is open: a text, a video, an audio recording, etc. Type a letter or write one by hand. Interview your aunt while making a video, or compose a poem. Pictures are also welcome. View tips.
- Anyone is welcome to make an ode, no matter how you identify - not just those who identify as a woman.
- Your ode can be about any woman* who helped make the city what it is today: known or unknown, from the mayor to your neighbor, and from either the past or the present.
- An important part of your ode is the connection with Amsterdam. Women who lived in Amsterdam, who in some way created or contributed to the city. This could also be your Turkish grandmother, who has never been to Amsterdam herself, but who somehow helps shape your life in this city. Not sure about your choice? Contact us!
- Do you want to recognize someone you know personally? Ask her permission before sharing her story.
- You may praise someone, but you can of course offer criticism, too. Please note that offensive and insulting submissions will not be accepted. Check our conditions.
*Anyone who identifies as being a woman, is gender-variant, or has played a role in the emancipation of women is eligible for an ode.
If everyone makes an ode about a woman of the city, we can enrich the city’s history.”
Hedy d'Ancona
My mother will become part of the history of Amsterdam, which makes me very proud!”
Ellen Brudet
Winkeleigenaar
Sharing stories about women is important, because it inspires others and gives them a role model.”
Imane Valk
Kinderrechten ambassadeur
It’s high time we bring women out of the shadows of history.”
Lize Korpershoek
Documentaire, illustratie
I believe this project’s strength lies in the active search for women from the history of Amsterdam, which brings awareness about them to a wider audience.”
Eva Bartels
Actrice, theatermaker
Through this ode to my grandmother, I hope that her life and entrepreneurship will not be forgotten and that she contributes to a more layered picture of Amsterdam’s history.”
Margriet Schavemaker
Artistic Director
Acknowledging women throughout history contributes to broadening the evolution of our collective identity.”
Maren de Wit
Conservator Amsterdam Museum
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need help? Read our frequently asked questions or mail us via info.ode@amsterdammuseum.nl.
Made possible in part by
The Amsterdam Museum is structurally supported by Main Beneficiary Gemeente Amsterdam, Founder VriendenLoterij and Main Partner Education ELJA Foundation. Th project partner is Cultuurloket DigitALL.