Witte de With was established in 1990 with the mission of introducing contemporary art and theory in the context of the City of Rotterdam and internationally.

While the program has transformed under the leadership of five visionary directors – Chris Dercon (1990-1995), Bartomeu Marí (1996-2001), Catherine David (2002-2004), Hans Maarten van den Brink (2005) and Nicolaus Schafhausen (2006-present) – a constant of the institution is its pioneering role in the field.

Witte de With exhibitions have supported some 300 artists, many at the very beginning of impressive careers; and, through its publications, lecture programmes and participation in global events such as the Venice Biennale and the Shanghai World Expo, the centre continues to shape international discourse on the broad development of art and its institutions.

On the occasion of its 20th anniversary, Witte de With Publishers presents a survey that balances celebration of and reflection on these achievements.