About us

The Algemeen Handelsblad complex, in which Vrij Paleis is situated, is a former newspaper building saved from demolition by a group of industrious squatters. The iconic building, designed by Eduard Kuypers, served as the editorial and printing office of the Algemeen Handelsblad for roughly three quarters of a century. The building fell into disrepair following the departure of the newspaper, an especially ironic waste given the severe lack of affordable housing available in Amsterdam at that time (and our time). The squatting of the building’s vacant maze of offices and editorial rooms brought it to life, creating space for artistic, social, and cultural initiatives. The former newspaper printing press hall was transformed into the ‘Aorta’ gallery by Peter Giele, infamous artist and resident of the building, along with other participant characters. Aorta was a sanctuary that provided space for countless (emerging) artists and performers throughout the 1980s. In combination with the flourishing art space, small businesses such as the Bierkoning, and greengrocer “Sprouts”, opened in the plinths of the building, leading to an influx of life that boosted the formerly backsliding neighborhood. After Aorta’s departure and the necessary renovation of the complex, a new era began with the opening of a craft design focused space brought about by the KIS Foundation. For years you could find special objects and creations available for enjoyment or purchase, along with studios spread over two floors, and an underground workshop host to everything you might need to make anything. Vereniging Vrij Paleis has taken over from KIS gallery since 2018, with a new group of creatives uniting and taking charge of the space while maintaining the gallery’s long history of kraak informed bootstrapping creation.