History

King Willem III founded the Rijksakademie van beeldende kunsten in 1870. The Academy succeeds the 19th century Koninklijke Academie, the Stads Teekenacademie (18th century) and the Konstkamer (17th century). In 1992, the Rijksakademie left its original building at the Stadhouderskade in Amsterdam and moved into the former Cavalry Barracks at the Sarphatistraat. The current premises were fully renovated to accommodate the current function, architect-designed by Koen van Velsen.

Artists like Jan Toorop, Berlage, G.H. Breitner, Piet Mondriaan, Constant and Karel Appel have studied / worked at the Rijksakademie. More recent artists include Alicia Framis, Meschac Gaba, Gabriël Lester, Liza May Post, Berend Strik, Fiona Tan, Jennifer Tee and Marijke van Warmerdam.

The Rijksakademie became a private institution at the end of 1999. As a foundation - the Stichting Rijksakademie van beeldende kunsten - it is financed by the Culture department of the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. In addition, the Rijksakademie receives funding from other government departments, commercial sponsors and funds.