Polarization is one of the most talked-about concepts in Dutch politics and society. There is growing concern about the increasing divide between people with different political views and beliefs—a gap that is amplified by radical politicians, activists, filter bubbles, and algorithms. This division now seems so deep that it poses a threat to our democracy. But is polarization truly as harmful as it is often made out to be? Or is it in fact a necessary element of a vibrant democratic society? And how can we better understand this complex and loaded phenomenon?
In this brand-new edition of HEDEN, we explore polarization from a variety of perspectives—through art, politics, and broader society. The evening opens with a lecture by sociologist and cultural theorist Pascal Gielen, who will speak on the search for trust in a world shaped by radicalization and isolation. Four artists — Katayoon Barzegar, Francisco Baquerizo, Philippa Driest, and Zuza Banasińska—present works that reflect on resistance and the search for connection with those who think differently. Join us in thinking, talking, and imagining together during VHDG’s returning art evening and exhibition.
Polarization
Is polarization a threat to our society, or an essential pillar of democracy? National debates on nitrogen policy, the energy transition, and migration increasingly reveal the growing tension between clashing interests and values. In Friesland, this becomes tangible in farmer protests, opposition to the placement of wind turbines, urban expansion, the arrival of newcomers, and the threat to biodiversity.
Media and online platforms often amplify conflict, but rarely contribute to mutual understanding. Digital echo chambers and economic insecurity fuel increasing polarization—both in the media and in everyday social interactions. Art has historically been a space where outspoken opinions and viewpoints are given a platform. A space where injustice is challenged, recognition is fought for, and emancipation takes shape. Yet when museums, art spaces, and artists speak out politically, they often risk losing part of their audience. Calls quickly follow for moderation and a return to neutrality. But what does neutrality actually mean? And how should cultural institutions and artists navigate this tension?
Ultimately, the question faced by the arts is the same one faced by society at large: What kind of public world do we want to live in?
Exhibition
HEDEN x Polarization opens with a presentation by Pascal Gielen (Professor of Sociology of Culture and Politics at the Antwerp Research Institute for the Arts (ARIA), University of Antwerp) on the search for a new social narrative—one grounded in proximity and trust, as an antidote to hyper-individualism, competitiveness, and institutional distrust.
Afterwards, four artists present their work, which will remain on view at VHDG for three more weeks:
Katayoon Barzegar – Replica
An installation of sculptural headpieces and videos exploring how political and social systems influence our self-image and behavior. Drawing from experiences in both Iran and the Netherlands, Replica reveals how inner division emerges when different worldviews collide.
Francisco Baquerizo Racines – La Quema (del Planeta “B”)
Through a burnable ship and the Ecuadorian año viejo tradition, Baquerizo examines how colonial and contemporary violence merge in ritual and protest. La Quema shows how collective art can serve as a space for resistance, as well as reflection on the enduring impact of power and exclusion.
Philippa Driest – Monuments Unseen
Through textile collages and archival images, Driest questions the dominant narratives embedded in public monuments. By deconstructing symbols of authority, she makes space for voices that are often ignored or erased.
Zuza Banasińska – Kontrowers
This experimental film explores how division takes shape in a Polish village, with a central stone acting as a powerful symbol of conflict. Kontrowers reveals how history, identity, and power are continuously retold—depending on who tells the story.
