Merel van Helsdingen

Merel van Helsdingen is the founder and managing director of Nxt Museum, the first museum in the Netherlands dedicated to new media art.12 Located in Amsterdam North, Nxt Museum focuses on large-scale, digital art installations that explore the intersection of art and technology.1

Background and Achievements

Merel built Nxt Museum from the ground up between 2018 and 2020, developing the concept, securing funding, and establishing relationships with artists.3 Her vision was to create a space that showcases "tech art" on a scale previously unseen in the Netherlands.1

Nxt Museum's Mission

The museum aims to:

1. Provide a home for art and technology
2. Exhibit new media art in an immersive, large-scale format
3. Invest in developing new artworks
4. Offer educational programs focused on technological development in art
5. Encourage visitors to think about the impact of technology on our lives and identities1

Professional Experience

Prior to founding Nxt Museum, Merel gained experience in London and Paris, refining her understanding of cutting-edge trends and innovations.5 She has also held positions on the boards of the Door Foundation and Schemerlicht Foundation.4

Approach to Art and Technology

Merel describes the art at Nxt Museum as using "modern tools to embody modern times." The museum focuses on contemporary issues and technological challenges, such as digital personalities in virtual worlds, facial recognition software, climate change, and the role of deep-fakes in communication.1

Through Nxt Museum, Merel aims to provoke thought about the future and the increasing role of technology in our lives, while showcasing art that addresses relevant topics of today.1