Its Not A Joke

Jokes might seem inappropriate when the news is confronting us with all the problems in the world today. But humour is especially important when times are tough. In art, humour is often evident in the form of rebellious, disturbing or liberating elements. Jokes make it possible to openly discuss loaded subjects, overcome inhibitions, cope with hardships and put things into perspective and process them. It’s Not A Joke, a group exhibition starting at museum van Bommel van Dam in Venlo on 1 April 2025, presents leading and emerging contemporary artists who use humour to expose social, societal and political issues. They challenge visitors to look beyond the playful appearance of their work and encourage them to reflect on themes like gender inequality, abuse of power and climate change.

The following artists are participating: Yael Bartana (IS, 1970), Salim Bayri (MA, 1992), Pii Daenen (NL, 1950), Ryan Gander (GB, 1976), Willem de Haan (NL, 1996), Sarah Lucas (GB, 1962), Tala Madani (IR, 1981), Hester Oerlemans (NL, 1961), Agata Siwek (PO, 1972), Ghita Skali (MA, 1992) and Nora Turato (HR, 1991).