Introduction
This is the final part of the Artists in Residence series, featuring Dutch artist Dimitri Madimin.
“Art, in the most positive sense, is about celebrating life.”
Dimitri Madimin is a multidisciplinary artist at ease with video, film, photography, clothing design, and music. When he’s not creating, he’s DJing or collaborating with collectives like Ruyzdael and Sugarfree. Community is at the heart of Dimitri’s work; he blends personal history, cultural roots, and collaboration into every piece, transforming art into a living narrative.
“Every project starts with wonder. It’s historical, autobiographical, and very personal. I keep main ideas on my phone or jot them in a notebook, then pick a medium that best fits the story. I’m always on the go, so I love flexible workspaces. My home is filled with art from friends, Indian patchwork curtains that filter the sun beautifully, and a treasured photo by my late friend Clyde Semmoh.”
Currently, Dimitri is linking the Dutch city of Alkmaar with the former plantation Alkmaar in Suriname, exploring colonial history and sugar production. His work aims to preserve the last storytellers and capture their voices through film, photography, and installations.
“I also co-founded Ruyzdael, where we showcase urban narratives through books, vinyl, and streetwear—stories that might otherwise be overlooked. Sugarfree is another initiative, mapping a colonial sugar route from east to west. It’s the backbone of much of my creative work. Ultimately, it’s about giving space to voices and histories that deserve the spotlight.”
The Final Chapter
The Artists in Residence series closes with Dimitri Madimin, offering an insight into his unique approach to storytelling through art. Each of the six artists featured has shared a distinct vision, shedding light on the ever-evolving landscape of Dutch creativity. From visual arts to performance, the series celebrates the diverse ways in which art can inspire, question, and connect.
A heartfelt thank you to all six artists for their time, trust, and willingness to share their stories.
- Instagram: @dimitrimadimin
Photography: Valérie van der Wal and Dimitri Madimin
Text and Production: Im Fong Liu
Originally published in Dutch in ModMod
