A Cinematic Marathon: Steve McQueen's 34-Hour Epic Illuminates the Rijksmuseum Facade

Prepare to have your perceptions of cinema and public art utterly transformed! Oscar-winning director and artist Steve McQueen has unveiled a truly monumental work, his 34-hour film titled "Bass," which is now captivating audiences on the majestic facade of Amsterdam's iconic Rijksmuseum. Running until January 25, 2026, this groundbreaking installation offers an unprecedented, durational viewing experience that challenges traditional notions of film and exhibition.

Known for his searingly powerful feature films like "12 Years a Slave" and the critically acclaimed "Small Axe" anthology, as well as his impactful art installations, McQueen consistently pushes boundaries.

With "Bass," he brings his distinctive vision to a public canvas of epic proportions, making art accessible to everyone who passes by the museum. This isn't just a film; it's a living, breathing exhibition that evolves with the hours, days, and seasons.

The decision to project a 34-hour film speaks volumes about McQueen's artistic intent.

It defies the conventional expectation of a sit-down, beginning-to-end viewing. Instead, "Bass" invites viewers to encounter it in snippets, moments, and prolonged observations, allowing its narrative and imagery to seep into the urban fabric. Imagine catching a glimpse of its evolving scenes as you cycle past, or standing for a reflective hour, watching its slow, deliberate progression unfold on such a grand scale.

The sheer duration encourages a different kind of engagement – one of patience, chance, and profound observation.

The Rijksmuseum, a bastion of Dutch art and history, provides a stunning and symbolic backdrop for McQueen's contemporary masterpiece. The juxtaposition of a cutting-edge, durational film against the classical architecture creates a powerful dialogue between past and present, tradition and innovation.

This ambitious project is not just a solo endeavor; it's a collaborative effort that includes the Kunstmuseum Den Haag and Amsterdam University, further cementing its significance within the cultural landscape.

McQueen's "Bass" is more than just a film projection; it's an event, a public spectacle, and a profound statement on time, observation, and the shared human experience.

It beckons us to slow down, to look closely, and to consider the stories that unfold continuously around us, often unseen. Don't miss the chance to witness this extraordinary artistic feat that redefines public art and cinematic possibility, gracing Amsterdam until early 2026.