That moment just before death. That tension just before the hundred-meter sprint. That moment the midst of on and off. Artist Robbert Weide took the time last Sunday to share what it is that fascinates him so, and what inspires his technical, mystical constructions to ten Public Insight visitors.

Weide was one of the 46 artists that opened their studio doors to audiences roaming in the Rijksakademie. We were welcomed by Sophie from Amsterdam Art Weekend and Justin from the Rijksakademie. The academy building on the Sarphatistraat was absolutely packed. We struggled our way through the crowds to catch a glimpse of the installations, constructions, video art and needlework on show.

We continued, by bicycle, through wind and rain, to view two gallery exhibitions featuring artists that once had their beginnings at the Rijksakademie. We made it to Ron Mandos, to view the work of Hans op de Beeck. Grey and melancholic. We then made it to Fons Welters, to view work by Folkert de Jong, with weighty themes such as righteousness and justice. Nevertheless, the artist’s face captured in plexiglass looked bright and happy. The storm had grown stronger by the time we left, but we were full and fulfilled, no commotion could get us down.

Photography by Xioaxiao Xu.