Masters by the mile in the Netherlands

Holland showcases more art and culture per square kilometre than any other country on earth. The proof lies in Holland Art Cities, a cultural event involving the Netherlands' four largest cities that began last year and runs through early 2011, with the country's leading museums joining forces to put together an unprecedented art spectacle.

Some of the most beautiful museums in the world are located within only an hour's travelling time of one another in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht. During Holland Art Cities, cultural organisations and the museums are scheduling an enviable calendar of events. The programme, which consists of over 25 exhibitions, is a must for art lovers.

The Hermitage Amsterdam, with exhibitions from the extensive art collection of the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg, opened its doors in the spring of 2009. Now located in a building with a surface of more than 4,000 square metres, the Hermitage Amsterdam hosts the exhibition "Pioneers of Modern Art" from March 6 to September 17, presenting a fine collections of French paintings from late 19th century and early 20th century. The collection includes paintings by Picasso, Matisse, Van Dongen, De Vlaminck and Derain.

Also in Amsterdam, the historic Stedelijk Museum is reopening early this year following renovations, the addition of a new wing and a new main entrance. In addition to a spectacular presentation of the collection in the original building, contemporary trends will be the focal point of the new section.

Several themes play an important role in the Holland Art Cities programme. Exhibitions around the theme "Young: Modern and Contemporary Art and Design" are being organised until the middle of the year. The Gemeentemuseum in The Hague, for example, presents the first major solo exhibition of former fashion designer Michael Raedecker.

Dutch masters, such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Vermeer are spotlighted from July until June 2011. The paintings of these artists originate from the Dutch golden age, a period spanning the 17th century during which the Netherlands was the most prosperous nation in Europe. Paintings of Dutch masters show characteristics of baroque painting, but most lack the idealisation and love of splendour typical of the Baroque movement.

Seven museums in three cities have exhibitions featuring the Dutch masters. The Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis in The Hague will show old masters from a private American collection from November 4. The Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam has a major retrospective on Marlene Dumas (date to be announced) and the Centraal Museum Utrecht presents works of art by the 17th- century painter Abraham Bloemaert from July.

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For the full programme and the list participating museums, visit www.HollandArtCities.com.