Gerrit Rietveld Academie

Summary

The Gerrit Rietveld Academie, established in 1924 in Amsterdam, is a renowned institution for fine arts and design education. Named after Dutch architect and designer Gerrit Rietveld, the academy offers diverse programmes, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as preparatory courses. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches and artistic research, it fosters a creative environment where students engage in critical thinking and hands-on experimentation.

History

The origins of the Gerrit Rietveld Academie can be traced back to the merger of three schools in 1924 to form the Instituut voor Kunstnijverheidsonderwijs (Institute for Education in the Applied Arts), or Kunstnijverheidsschool (School of Applied Arts) for short. From 1939 to 1960, the study programme was heavily influenced by the functionalist and socio-critical ideas of De Stijl and the Bauhaus, partly thanks to the role of the socialist architect Mart Stam, who was the director of the programme. This period marked a significant phase in the academy’s development, aligning with progressive movements in art and design.

In 1967, the academy moved to its current location, occupying a building designed by Gerrit Rietveld himself. This architectural choice honoured the founder and also provided a physical space that reflected the academy’s commitment to innovative design. The building’s completion in 1966 was a milestone in the institution’s history. The transition to higher professional education occurred in 1968 when the academy became part of the national system, receiving the status of an Academy for Fine Arts and Design. Consequently, the institution was renamed the Gerrit Rietveld Academie in honour of its founder, who had passed away in 1965.

Over the years, the academy has undergone several expansions to accommodate its growing community. In 2003, the Benthem Crouwel Building was completed, designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects. This addition provided additional studio spaces and facilities, further enhancing the academy’s infrastructure. In 2019, the FedLev Building was inaugurated, designed by Paulien Bremmer of the FedLev collective and Hootsmans Architects. This modern structure houses various facilities, including the library, robotics workshop, and auditorium, fostering an environment conducive to creative exploration.

Today, the Gerrit Rietveld Academie stands as a testament to its rich history, continuously evolving to meet the demands of contemporary art and design education. Its legacy is reflected in the achievements of its alumni and the ongoing contributions to the global creative community.

Vision

Gerrit Rietveld’s vision for the academy was rooted in the principles of functionalism and social responsibility. He believed in the integration of art and design into everyday life, advocating for designs that were both aesthetically pleasing and accessible to the broader public. This philosophy is evident in his architectural works and continues to influence the academy’s approach to education. The academy’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking aligns with Rietveld’s vision of fostering independent thought and innovation. Furthermore, Rietveld’s emphasis on collaboration and community engagement is reflected in the academy’s initiatives and projects. Through partnerships and collective efforts, the institution continues to embody his belief in the power of art and design to effect social change and enrich society.

Top Design Courses

The Gerrit Rietveld Academie offers comprehensive design courses that are structured to provide both foundational knowledge and advanced skills, preparing students for diverse careers in the creative industry. Among the notable courses is the Bachelor of Fine Arts, which encompasses disciplines such as Fine Arts, Ceramics, Photography, and The Large Glass. This programme fosters artistic expression and technical proficiency. Bachelor of Design includes specialisations in Graphic Design, Fashion, Jewellery – Linking Bodies, and VAV. This course emphasises conceptual thinking, technical skills, and the exploration of contemporary design practices. For those seeking part-time study options, the DOGtime programme provides flexible pathways in Expanded Painting and Unstable Media. This initiative caters to individuals aiming to balance their education with other commitments, without compromising on the quality and depth of their learning experience.

Job Integration Services

The Gerrit Rietveld Academie provides comprehensive support to students and alumni in transitioning from education to professional practice. One of the key initiatives is the Career Services Office, which offers personalised guidance on portfolio development, job applications, and interview preparation. Additionally, the office organises networking events and connects students with industry professionals, fostering valuable relationships that can lead to employment opportunities. The academy also maintains strong partnerships with various cultural institutions, galleries, and design firms, providing students with access to internships and collaborative projects. Further, the Alumni Network offers mentorship programmes, workshops, and a platform for sharing job openings, which serves as a bridge between the academy and the broader creative community.

References

• “Gerrit Rietveld Academie”  ARCAM. 
• “STAM, Martinus Adrianus | BWSA”. socialhistory.org. 
• “Samenwerkingsproject: de digitalisering van het Archief Sybren Valkema”. Rijksbureau voor Kunsthistorische Documentatie