Blood, sweat and tears. The world of handkerchiefs.
Saturday April 18th 2026 t/m Sunday October 11th 2026
What does a handkerchief have to do with protest, rituals, fashion, and memories? More than you might think. In the exhibition Blood, Sweat and Tears – The World of the Handkerchief, the museum shows how an everyday piece of fabric has evolved over the centuries into a surprisingly versatile and meaningful object.
From Saturday, April 18 through Sunday, October 11, 2026, the handkerchief takes center stage in an exhibition that brings together art, cultural history, and local stories. What once began as a practical item—to dry tears or stop a nosebleed—turns out to also be a means of communication, a fashion accessory, a souvenir, a symbol of protest, and a carrier of memories.
Special attention is given to the role of the handkerchief within the Moluccan community in Woerden. Within this community, the lenso (handkerchief) holds important symbolic meaning. In collaboration with the Sinar Maluku Foundation, this story is made visible in the exhibition, including through visual material and contributions from the community.
Art and participation
Artist Eline Janssens developed the original concept for the exhibition and is producing new work especially for this edition. Eline reflects on the themes and presents them in a clear and surprising way through her handkerchiefs.
In addition, amateur artists from Woerden are contributing their own work. Under the guidance of Janssens, they are creating new interpretations of the handkerchief, which will be on display during the exhibition.
The exhibition also features loans from national museum collections and private collections, complemented by personal stories from contributers.
