FOAM – Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam – is a renowned photography museum on the Keizersgracht canal in the centre of Amsterdam. Book FOAM tickets here
It holds regular exhibitions of photos from both noted international and younger up-and-coming photographers. FOAM has become the most visited photography museum in the Netherlands.
The FOAM museum opened its doors in 2001. The listed building at Keizersgracht 609 was originally a former canal warehouse (1861) which was then converted into the Museum Fodor in 1863 – this eventually shut down in 1993. You can still see the Fodor gold lettering on the entrance archway.
The large canal house has a pleasant, relaxed ambience with modern interior. The first exhibition room on the ground floor has large windows giving views out to the lush garden – although unfortunately this outdoor area is not accessible to the public.
FOAM Amsterdam normally runs 2-4 simultaneous exhibitions which provides some variety for the visitor. FOAM can feature contrasting photographic styles – from street and landscape photography to more abstract work including visual installations.
Exhibitions are spread over 4 floors of the house and run for approximately 3 months.
Currently: Janette Beckman Rebels is the first large scale retrospective of the iconic punk and hip-hop photographer, spanning 4 decades. Runs 10 May to 8 Sep 2024.
FOAM 3h is a project space where recently graduated photographers can present their first solo exhibition.
FOAM also runs a variety of workshops, podcasts and discussions about photography. FOAM publishes its FOAM magazine about 3 times per year for an international audience.
At the museum there is a FOAM Café for snacks and drinks with free WiFi available. You can buy FOAM magazines, photography-themed books and posters in the cafe or at the entrance foyer.
FOAM editions is the in-house gallery where it is possible to purchase prints and unique pieces.
FOAM is a well-established photo museum in Amsterdam holding regular exhibitions. For photography enthusiasts FOAM could certainly be worth a visit.
A short walk away along the Keizersgracht is also the Huis Marseille Photography Museum
FOAM Museum Essential Info
FOAM Opening Hours1000-1800 (Sat-Wed), 1000-2100 (Thu-Fri). |
FOAM Amsterdam Tickets & Admission€16 for adults, €12.80 for students and €11.75 for CJP cultural youth pass holders/students under 18. FREE entry for children 0-12, Museumkaart and Iamsterdam City Card holders. Special exhibitions may attract a small supplement. You can book FOAM tickets online here Alternatively, order the I Amsterdam City Card online here which includes free entrance to FOAM. |
How to Get to FOAM AmsterdamFOAM museum is located on the Keizersgracht canal a short walk from Muntplein. Walk down Vijzelstraat and turn left onto the Keizersgracht (north side). Metro 52 stops at nearby Vijzelgracht. |
Address / ContactFOAM Photography Museum, Keizersgracht 609, 1017 DS Amsterdam |
Last updated 2 May 2024. This article was first published in 2010 and has been regularly updated.
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