Physical Closure and Virtual Visibility: Digital Initiatives at the Stedelijk Museum (2004-2011)

The Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam provides an apt case study to examine the effects of a closed museum building. The Stedelijk's building was closed for renovations for the better part of a decade (2004-2012). As a living museum, one that sets itself the task of maintaining a direct link to the most contemporary art practice, it was imperative that the Stedelijk continue to grow and evolve even while undergoing construction. How did the Stedelijk function beyond the white cube? Could it continue to be an innovator by using new technologies – online and onsite – to explore alternatives to a physical site, stimulate art production, create, and sustain a public presence?