Nederlands Mijnmuseum
The Nederlands Mijnmuseum (Dutch Mining Museum) tells the story of the Limburg mining region: from the underground work in the mines to the major social and cultural changes brought about by mining.
Since 2022, the museum has been housed in the monumental Kneepkens department store by architect Frits Peutz, right in the heart of Heerlen’s city center.
Selection on the third floor
For Rooted in Change, the Nederlands Mijnmuseum presents a selection of 21 works from the DSM collection on the third floor – in the 'Color' department. The presentation includes 14 paintings and photographs, 6 sculptures, and 1 video work. The Color department is dedicated to new stories, current themes, and underrepresented perspectives, making it the ideal setting for this mix of historical and contemporary works.
From mining landscapes to contemporary art
The works show different aspects of the mining story. Mining landscapes and miners are depicted by Leo Franssen, Harry Koolen, and Daan Wildschut. Frans Gast represents the miner himself – known for the large sculpture in front of Heerlen City Hall – while Arthur Spronken portrays Saint Barbara, the patron saint of miners. At the same time, there is space for contemporary art by artists with roots in the region, such as Chaim van Luit and Hadassah Emmerich, alongside international voices like Berndnaut Smilde and Itamar Gilboa.
Meaning beyond the canvas
Director-curator Leen Roels emphasizes that the DSM collection is not only art but also heritage. While mining objects and stories make the daily lives of the miners tangible, artworks add a new layer. They evoke emotions and memories, showing how the mining past continues to resonate in contemporary art.
According to Roels, the collaboration with SCHUNCK offers an opportunity to further deepen and broaden the mining narrative. The DSM collection at the Nederlands Mijnmuseum demonstrates that the mining past is not just history, but also a source of inspiration for research, dialogue, and the stories of future generations.
Practical Information
- Location: Nederlands Mijnmuseum – Dr. Poelsstraat 29, Heerlen
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, closed on public holidays
- Entrance:
- Regular ticket Nederlands Mijnmuseum: € 11,- for adults (17+), free for children 0–17 years
- Combination ticket SCHUNCK + Nederlands Mijnmuseum: € 16,50
- Valid on the same day
- Visitors with a Museumkaart or VriendenLoterij VIP card pay the regular entry (€ 11,-) at Nederlands Mijnmuseum
- Not valid in combination with other discounts
- Entry to the Raadhuis is free