THE HAGUE.- After nearly two decades enriching the art scene in The Hague, Doede Hardeman, the esteemed Head of Collections at Kunstmuseum Den Haag, is embarking on a new adventure. Come November 1st, he'll take the helm as museum director of Singer Laren.

Hardeman's journey at Kunstmuseum Den Haag began in 2006 as a curator of modern art. His dedication and keen eye quickly saw him rise through the ranks, becoming Head of Collections in 2016. In that pivotal role, he didn't just steer the museum's collection policy; he also led a passionate team of curators, conservators, and collection staff.

During his tenure, Hardeman was instrumental in bringing art to life for countless visitors. He masterminded numerous acclaimed (inter)national exhibitions, spanning 19th-century, modern, and post-war to contemporary art. Think of blockbusters like "Alexander Calder - the great discovery," "Rodin to Bourgeois – sculpture in the twentieth century," and "Color Unchained – modern art in the Low Countries 1880/1914." These shows didn't just display art; they made artists and movements resonate with a broader audience. Beyond the exhibitions, Hardeman played a crucial role in acquiring significant pieces that will grace the museum's collection for generations, including a captivating beach scene by Max Beckmann, the unique Delft earthenware flower pyramids, and a recent acquisition of sketches by Marlow Moss.

Margriet Schavemaker, General Director of Kunstmuseum Den Haag, expressed mixed emotions about Hardeman's departure. "Doede's knowledge of the Kunstmuseum's collection and history, and his magnificent exhibitions, are invaluable," she shared. "We're going to miss him terribly, of course, but at the same time, we're incredibly proud to see him take such a wonderful next step. The collections of Singer Laren and Kunstmuseum Den Haag have so many beautiful connections, so we've already agreed to join forces wherever we can."

For Hardeman himself, the move is a bittersweet but exciting one. "I'm incredibly grateful for all the opportunities I've had at Kunstmuseum Den Haag and the experiences I've gained here," he said. "I'll truly miss this fantastic collection, the amazing team, and this beautiful building. But after 19 years, it's time for a new chapter in my career. I'm really looking forward to working with the team at Singer Laren, from this beautiful new location, to continue sharing the love and passion for art with the public."