At the Damrak on the daily journey between home and studio, my eye is continually drawn to the emblem that has functioned as a façade ornament on the corner of the Beurs van Berlage for more than a hundred years. In combination with the past function of the building - trade centre - and in relation to the present financial crisis, the timeless maxim gains extra significance: ‘Dis-pe-reert niet’ (‘Do not des-pair’).

This is the area where I always make my round if I want to see some good works in the galleries. It’s a nice neighbourhood with many galleries in a walking distance from each other.

De Plantage is a bright, elegant brasserie beside Artis where great design.

Store without a home is a guerrilla gallery department store, make sure you check out “Leaf-it” I love these sticky leaves!

Small collection of foreign movies with a huge waterside-view cafe.