The MELLYs: a new awards celebration spotlighting art’s unseen contributors

Kunstinstituut Melly announces the first edition of The MELLYs, a newly envisioned awards celebration and benefit dinner taking place on Thursday, 27 November 2025, at Arminius in Rotterdam. Conceived on the occasion of the institution’s 35th anniversary, The MELLYs recognize the individuals whose often-unseen contributions sustain the art and cultural ecosystem.

The MELLYs introduce three award categories, each carrying a prize of €25,000

Maker Behind the Maker Award

Honoring the craftspeople, fabricators, and producers whose skills make artistic work possible.

Behind the Lens Award (formerly the Berry Koedam Award)

Recognizing photographers and documenters who expand how we see and remember art.

Visionary 010 Award

Highlighting Rotterdam-based cultural leaders whose initiatives shape the city’s creative life.

The award prizes are made possible thanks to the generous support of the Mondriaan Fund and Stichting Stokroos.

An evening of recognition, dining, and celebration

The MELLYs combines an awards ceremony with a seated three-course dinner designed as a shared experience. People will be welcome with starters, developed as a food concept by artist Riet Wijnen, extends the spirit of the evening: to connect, exchange, and celebrate together.The program will be moderated by Evita de Roode, with a performance by donna Kukama, and a dancefloor takeover by DJs Jollyfish. Scenography is by Loui Meeuwissen and production by Around010.

A vital fundraiser for future programming

Beyond celebration, The MELLYs is a vital fundraiser for Kunstinstituut Melly. Proceeds from the evening will directly support the institution’s 2026 programming, including a major retrospective of Moshekwa Langa.

Practical Information

Date: Thursday, 27 November 2025

Location: Arminius, Rotterdam

Tables: Available for 10, 6, or 4 guests; individual seats also available.

For more information and reservations: [email protected]