Commissioned

topics

Publishers

Architecture

ISBN: 9789461051639
English edition
SUN architecture
Hardcover, 504 pages
21 x 27 cm
colour
November 2011
€46,70 (excl. VAT)

Commissioned

Sixty years percentage for art programme at the Dutch Government Building Agency

Wijnand Galema, a.o. Ed(s)

The Dutch Government Building Agency is the biggest commissioner of art in the world. In the Netherlands it is obligatory to devote a percentage of the building costs of all government premises to art in the public domain. This so called ‘percentage for art programme’ has been in force for 60 years. This richly illustrated jubilee publication presents a survey of 60 years of Dutch art as well as 60 years of public commissions.

Lloyd Benjamin III wrote an essay on the significance of this art for the development of art in the Netherlands. Wijnand Galema describes the history of the percentage programme, the highs and lows, and the tension between art and architecture. The heart of the book shows 50 of the best works of art. They are arranged per decade and preceded by a sort introduction on that specific decade. The volume concludes with a list of every public commission placed.

This publication was realized in collaboration with the Government Buildings Agency.

About the author: Wijnand Galema is a historian of architecture. Besides writing on this topic, he gives lectures and workshops, moderates debates, and organizes exhibitions and events related to his discipline. Among the contributors is the 10th president of the Indiana State University, Lloyd Benjamin III. He published The Art of Design Environment in the Netherlands in 1983.

Please note: This is the English edition of this publication. It is also available in Dutch.