FOAM – Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam – is a renowned photography museum on the Keizersgracht canal in the centre of Amsterdam.
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 which was converted into the Fodor Museum in 1863 (which was subsequently shut down in 1993).
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 artistic work including visual installations.
Exhibitions are spread over 4 floors of the house and run for approximately 3 months.
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. There is a shop in the foyer which sells FOAM magazines, photography-themed books and posters.
For photography enthusiasts FOAM is certainly worth a visit. A short walk away is also the Huis Marseille Photography Museum.
It is recommended to pre-book a ticket and timeslot online in advance.
FOAM Museum Essential Info
| Opening Times | Sat-Wed 1000-1800, Thu-Fri 1000-2100. |
| Admission Prices (2022) | €12.50 for adults, €9.50 for students and €8.50 for CJP cultural youth pass holders. FREE entry for children 0-12, Museumkaart and Iamsterdam City Card holders. Cash is not accepted at the front desk. Special exhibitions may attract a small supplement. You can pre-book tickets online here Alternatively, order the Iamsterdam City Card online here which includes free entrance to FOAM. |
| Getting There | FOAM 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. |
FOAM Photography Museum, Keizersgracht 609, 1017 DS Amsterdam
T: +31(0)20 551 6500, foam.org
Last updated 8 September 2022. This article was first published in 2010 and has been regularly updated.
