YSA Design transforms Nieuw Statendam into art gallery

Norwegian architecture and interior design firm YSA Design and Art@YSA have transformed Holland America Line’s newest ship into an art gallery with around 2,500 original pieces of artwork.

Featuring 160 artists, the ship’s art collections is one of the largest at sea, according to Anne-Cecilie Thidemansen, art consultant at YSA Design. 

“Visually arresting art can help passengers get their bearings onboard a huge cruise ship, but it also provides talking points and, on repeat viewing, can offer fresh discoveries. Art changes situations and environments, which means it can also change perceptions,” she said.

Deck 9 showcases a version of Michelangelo’s David holding a mobile phone. “The artist is saying something about classical sculpture and modern obsessions, but there’s a further layer of irony if passengers see David as a ‘selfie moment’,” said Thidemansen. 

YSA Design worked across the 2,666-guest, 99,902gt Pinnacle-class ship, developing and project managing the theatre, stairs and lift lobbies, Neptune and observation lounges, Tamarind Restaurant, spa, outdoor areas and several other public spaces. The company also carried out similar work on Nieuw Statendam’s sister ship, Koninsgdam.

“Visual arts have been pivotal in evolving the brand in a way that retains its classic associations but adds edginess to appeal to a broader demographic,” said Trond Sigurdsen, chairman and partner at YSA Design. “Three works on Nieuw Statendam even use the Holland America logo as their inspirational motif.”