NeighbourhoodWesterpark
Digital Art Center
Fabrique des Lumières
Step into a world where art comes to life through 3,800 square meters of floor-to-ceiling digital projections in a historic industrial gasworks.
Best forImmersive art and families
Plan for60 to 90 minutes
Worth knowingMuseumkaart is not accepted
The Experience
Art Beyond the Canvas
Fabrique des Lumières is a cutting-edge digital art center located within the Westergas complex, a former 19th-century gasworks in Amsterdam's Westerpark. The venue utilizes more than 100 projectors and a sophisticated spatial sound system to create a fully immersive environment. Unlike traditional galleries, visitors here are encouraged to walk through the art, as masterpieces are projected onto 17-meter-high brick walls and across the expansive floors.
The programming typically features a rotating selection of exhibitions, ranging from the works of classical masters like Gustav Klimt and the Dutch Masters to contemporary digital creations and themed experiences like 'Prehistoric Planet.' The scale of the projections, covering a total area of 3,800 square meters, allows for a unique perspective on brushstrokes and textures that are often invisible to the naked eye in a standard museum setting.
Industrial Heritage
From Gasworks to Gallery
The building housing Fabrique des Lumières was originally part of the Imperial Continental Gas Association, built in 1883 to produce gas for Amsterdam's street lighting. The architecture is a prime example of Dutch neo-Renaissance industrial style, characterized by its red brickwork and vast, open interior spaces designed to accommodate heavy machinery.
After gas production ceased in 1967, the site underwent a significant transformation. The Westergasfabriek area was repurposed into a cultural park, preserving the industrial heritage while providing space for creative ventures. Fabrique des Lumières opened its doors as part of the Culturespaces network, which specializes in creating immersive digital exhibitions in historic locations, effectively bridging the gap between 19th-century engineering and 21st-century technology.
What to See
Immersive Highlights
Technology
3,800m² Projection Surface
Experience art on a massive scale with projections that cover every surface, including the floors and the 17-meter-high walls of the former gasworks.
Exhibitions
Rotating Masterpieces
From the golden hues of Gustav Klimt to the detailed landscapes of Dutch Masters, the venue hosts diverse shows that change throughout the year.
Atmosphere
Spatial Sound Design
A high-quality sound system complements the visuals, creating a multi-sensory environment that synchronizes music with the movement of the light.
Visitor Flow
Timing Your Visit
Morning
Early Sessions
The venue typically opens at 09:30. Morning slots are often dedicated to specific exhibitions like the Dutch Masters, offering a quieter atmosphere.
Afternoon
Family Programming
Mid-day slots frequently feature family-friendly content, such as the Prehistoric Planet dinosaurs experience, which is popular with younger visitors.
Evening
Late Night Specials
On Fridays and Saturdays, the venue often stays open until 21:00, sometimes hosting special music-themed shows like the Coldplay experience.
Visuals
A Symphony of Light
The interior of the Gashouder and surrounding buildings provide a dramatic backdrop for the digital displays. The contrast between the rugged, historic brickwork and the vibrant, fluid light projections creates a unique aesthetic that is highly popular for photography.
Need to Know
Visitor Information
Tickets must be booked online for a specific time slot to ensure entry. While the Museumkaart is not accepted, holders of the I amsterdam City Card can receive a discount on the entry price.
Official websitePricing
Ticket Rates
Adult tickets are approximately €18, with reduced rates of €14 for youth (ages 5-17). Children under 5 typically enter for free.
Entry Policy
Last Admission
Final entry is strictly one hour before the closing time of the current exhibition session. Check the daily schedule as times vary by show.
Bookable experiences
Experiences around Fabrique des Lumieres, Amsterdam.
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Getting There
Transport Links
Fabrique des Lumières is located at Pazzanistraat 37 in Westerpark. From Amsterdam Centraal, take Bus 21 toward Geuzenveld and get off at the Van Hallstraat stop, followed by a 5-minute walk. Alternatively, Bus 18 or 22 will take you to Haarlemmerplein, which is about a 12-minute walk from the venue. If traveling from Museumplein, Tram 5 to Haarlemmerplein is the most direct route.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Museumkaart valid here?⌄
No, the Museumkaart is not accepted at Fabrique des Lumières. However, the I amsterdam City Card offers a discount.
How long should I spend at the exhibition?⌄
Most visitors spend between 60 and 90 minutes to fully experience the main and short programs.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs?⌄
Yes, the digital art center is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
Do I need to book in advance?⌄
Yes, it is highly recommended to book a time slot online in advance as sessions often sell out, especially on weekends.