Ron Mandos is one of the busiest art dealers in the Netherlands. Once again he makes himself ready for Art Rotterdam the country’s leading art fair starting on Thursday. Nicole Büsing & Heiko Klaas talked with him about the relocation of the fair and new tendencies in the art market
Ron Mandos 2024, Photo by Kwadwo Amfo
Nicole Büsing & Heiko Klaas: Why did you decide to take part in this year’s Art Rotterdam? What do you appreciate about Art Rotterdam? What would you describe as the fair’s unique selling point?
Ron Mandos: Art Rotterdam has been an essential part of my gallery’s journey since the very beginning. It is the most important contemporary art fair in the Netherlands, and for me, it holds a special significance. Not only because it takes place in Rotterdam, my birth city, but also because it is where I founded my gallery 25 years ago. Being part of Art Rotterdam each year feels like a homecoming, both personally and professionally.
What makes Art Rotterdam so unique is the way it brings together the entire Dutch contemporary art scene under one roof. It is the key moment in the year when all Dutch galleries, museum directors, curators, and collectors gather to engage with new work and exchange ideas. Another highlight of the event is the Prospects section, where emerging artists receive a platform through the support of the Mondrian Fund. It’s always inspiring to witness the talent that represents the future of the Dutch art scene.
Miles Greenberg, LO B-30, C-print, 27 x 48 in, 68,6 x 121,9 cm, 2021, Courtesy the artist and Galerie Ron Mandos
NB & HK: Which artists will you be presenting at Art Rotterdam and with which media and works?
RM: This year, we are proud to present a selection of established and emerging artists, offering a dynamic mix of perspectives and materials. One of the highlights of our presentation is our collaboration with New York-based performance artist and sculptor Miles Greenberg. This marks the first time we are working with him, and we are excited to introduce his unique practice to the Dutch audience. Greenberg’s sculptural piece Mars (2022) will be on view in our booth, accompanied by a series of photographic works that capture moments from his performances. His work investigates the body’s relationship to space and movement, resulting in deeply poetic and immersive pieces.
Alongside Greenberg, we are bringing works by Alin Bozbiciu, Atelier Van Lieshout, Hans Op de Beeck, Katinka Lampe, Levi van Veluw, and Tomáš Libertíny. In addition to our booth presentation, several special projects will be featured across the fair, including Atelier Van Lieshout’s new monumental sculpture at Sculpture Park, Maarten Baas’ interactive piano installation Crescendo! at Intersections, and Hans Op de Beeck’s video work Vanishing Point in Projections.
Hans Op de Beeck, Toon, Black-and-white watercolour on Arches paper in wooden frame, 189,6 x 3,8 x 130,6 cm, 2023, Courtesy the artist and Galerie Ron Mandos
NB & HK: What do you think characterizes Dutch collectors?
RM: Dutch collectors are known for their loyalty to both galleries and artists. Many continue to follow an artist’s career over time, acquiring new works and building thoughtful collections. Even if an artist doesn’t achieve international acclaim, Dutch collectors remain committed. They generally make personal and deliberate choices rather than being swayed by trends or what is considered ‘hot’ at the moment.
A striking example is Ali Keles of the Lakeside Collection, who once said: “After purchasing an artwork, its economic value disappears for me.” In other words, true collecting is about passion, about cherishing the work and taking pride in having acquired something timeless.
Tomas Libertiny, Eternity (Black), Beeswax, composite, 24 x 36 x 50 cm, 2024 – in showcase 2, Courtesy the artist and Galerie Ron Mandos
NB & HK: How important is the fair’s connection to the neighboring countries Belgium and Germany?
RM: The connection between the Dutch, Belgian, and German art markets has always been strong, and Art Rotterdam plays a key role in maintaining and strengthening these ties. We work with many Belgian and German artists, and we also actively participate in fairs in both countries, so there is a natural crossover.
For Belgian collectors, Rotterdam is a relatively short journey, and every year we see a significant presence of collectors from cities like Antwerp, Brussels, and Ghent. The proximity and cultural affinities between the Netherlands and Belgium make Art Rotterdam an appealing destination for them.
Levi van Veluw, Transcendence, Wood, ink, metal frame, 240 x 140 cm, 2025, Courtesy the artist and Galerie Ron Mandos
NB & HK: This year, Art Rotterdam is taking place for the first time at Rotterdam Ahoy in the south of Rotterdam. What improvements do you hope to see from this new venue?
RM: While the Van Nelle Factory will always hold a special place in the hearts of many, I see the move to Rotterdam Ahoy as an exciting new chapter for Art Rotterdam. One of the key advantages of Ahoy is its accessibility. It is well-connected to public transport and has excellent logistical facilities, making it easier for both exhibitors and visitors. This year’s fair will be extra special with exciting side projects, like Projections, Sculpture Park, and for the first time the new Intersections section.
Marcos Kueh, Double Happiness (Autumn), Industrial weaving, recycled polyester, 8 yarns, 100 x 65 cm, 2024, Courtesy the artist and Galerie Ron Mandos
NB & HK: In general, what are the challenges for the 26th edition of Art Rotterdam, also in view of a certain reluctance to buy art and given the global crises and political uncertainties?
RM: There is no doubt that the global art market is being impacted by economic uncertainties and geopolitical crises. However, I also see reasons for optimism, particularly in the Netherlands. The Dutch economy remains relatively strong, and I notice a continued interest in collecting art, particularly from younger generations.
One trend I find encouraging is the growing desire to invest in emerging artists. More collectors are looking towards the future, seeking out fresh voices that reflect contemporary concerns and new perspectives. This aligns well with our own approach. We are committed to supporting young talent, and at this year’s Art Rotterdam, we are presenting a selection of promising young artists from our Best of Graduates program. This includes Marcos Kueh, Mounir Eddib, and Katarzyna Baldyga, artists who have recently graduated and represent the next generation of artistic talent.
Katarzyna Baldyga, Isidora, Oil and tempera paint on canvas, 140 x 180 cm, 2025, Courtesy the artist and Galerie Ron Mandos
