ROTTERDAM.- The exhibition programme of Fenix is twofold: artistic takeovers, supported by newly commissioned works from contemporary artists, and Fenix in Focus, a series of mid-scale presentations that delve into migration themes found in the Fenix collection. With its mix of artworks and cultural activities, Fenix in Focus regularly sheds light on current issues linked to migration.

The Family of Migrants
Ongoing: 1 January – 31 December 2026

The Family of Migrants brings together 136 photographers from around the world, presenting both iconic and lesser-known images that illustrate migration as a timeless phenomenon and, above all, a deeply human story. From iconic images by Dorothea Lange and Alfred Stieglitz to anonymous family pictures.

A World in Motion: Migration in Children Books (Fenix in Focus)
1 – 31 January 2026

An international selection collection of children’s books illustrating migration told to and read by children through the years. The selection takes you on a journey through time, illustrating how we’ve told the stories of migration to children through the years.

Female Gaze on Migration (Fenix in Focus)
1 – 31 March 2026

To honour International Women’s Day, Fenix launches a special route through the collection display highlighting works by female artists. Each of them sharing a perspective on the topic of migration. Among others: Rineke Dijkstra, Sue Williamson and Cornelia Parkers including new acquisitions by April Bey and Jasleen Kaur.

Willem de Kooning: From Rotterdam to New York (Fenix in Focus)
16 July – 31 December 2026

In July, Fenix celebrates the 100th anniversary of Willem de Kooning’s departure from Rotterdam, from the very quays that Fenix overlooks today. In collaboration with CBK Rotterdam and Sculpture International.

Hew Locke: The departure of the Pilgrim Fathers (Fenix in Focus)
1 August – 31 December 2026

Hew Locke, winner of Apollo's 2025 Artist of the Year Award, has been commissioned by Fenix to make a ship model inspired by the Speedwell. When the Pilgrim Fathers crossed The Atlantic in 1620, they did so aboard the Speedwell, leaving from the Rotterdam suburb Delfshaven and later transferring to the Mayflower in to Southampton. Fenix will exhibit Locke’s new commission in August, the month the Speedwell left Rotterdam.

Shilpa Gupta
9 October 2026 – 7 February 2027

Fenix presents a solo exhibition by the Indian visual artist Shilpa Gupta (1976). Gupta’s works address themes such as borders, freedom and globalisation. This will be the first takeover by a contemporary artist at Fenix.