Vorige
The dream
Are you curious about how our museum came to be? Let us take you back to the year 2001, when photographer Ruben Timman had a remarkable dream. It marked the beginning of a unique adventure that continues to this day.
Photographer Ruben Timman:
‘I am convinced that every human being is valuable and deserves to be portrayed in a dignified manner.’
Photographer Ruben Timman:
‘I am convinced that every human being is valuable and deserves to be portrayed in a dignified manner.’
Watch the film about the origins of our museum
Watch the film about the origins of our museum
Back in time
Ruben works in a refugee camp in Thailand
Back in time
Ruben works in a refugee camp in Thailand
Timeline:
1988
Ruben works in a refugee camp
Ruben, a nurse with a strong sense of justice, works in a refugee camp in Thailand. What he witnesses there affects him deeply and inspires him to document the world’s hardships through photography. Upon returning home, he trades his stethoscope for a camera and enrolls in an art academy.
2001
A remarkable dream
During a photography trip in Vietnam, Ruben dreams of a dilapidated ‘museum of humanity,’ in which he is given a tour by former UN chief Kofi Annan. This dream inspires him to travel the world, photographing people—in their purest and most dignified form—against a black background.
2016
Depression
While suffering from depression and following the loss of his photography studio, Ruben discovers a large, abandoned building on the Hembrug site (near Amsterdam) that resembles the museum from his dream.
2017
'Forbidden entry'
Around the building stands a high fence with a sign: No entry – danger of collapse. It is not until March 29, 2017—when it becomes clear that renovations are on the horizon—that Ruben dares to slip inside.
2017
Everything comes to life
Upon entering, you feel it immediately: this is the Museum of Humanity from a dream. Everything seems to come to life. The atmosphere is spot on: the darkness, the decay, broken glass, rubble, and dust. Only the masterpieces are still missing.
2017
Illegal museum
He puts up portraits there illegally, creating his own ‘museum of humanity.’ When people discover this, Ruben confesses to the owner. The owner is initially very angry, but at the same time finds it truly beautiful. The result? Ruben is given permission to hold an official exhibition in the building.
2018
ArtZaanstad Exhibition
A new milestone. ArtZaanstad is providing a space for the Rubens project. The exhibition will be opened in May 2018 by Lieutenant General Tom Middendorp.
2018
Establishment of the foundation
A team of enthusiastic supporters has come together to assist Ruben. The Museum of Humanity Foundation has been established, with Thomas Möhring, Joshua Schot, and Maarten Verbruggen serving as board members.
2019
Official opening of the museum
The owner of the site has offered us 'Building 155'. In the spring, we opened the doors to the first true Museum of Humanity. Since then, we have welcomed thousands of people.
2023
The Museum of Humanity Foundation celebrates its 5th anniversary
The team around Ruben has grown, and projects are being carried out in an increasing number of places to help people discover the beauty within themselves and in others. The adventure continues!
2026
The dream has existed for 25 years
It has been exactly 25 years since Ruben had his dream—specifically, on December 16, 2001. In 2026 and 2027, we will mark this special anniversary.
Rubens' first museum
Just around the corner from our current location, you’ll find the main building of the Hembrug site—Building 8. That is where Ruben secretly hung his first portraits, and this is what it looked like.
Keynote or workshop?
Book Ruben as a speaker
Book photographer Ruben Timman for a keynote or workshop. He shares how he transformed his ideals into an international photography project and demonstrates what it truly means to look at people. Inspiring, personal, and thought-provoking. Request more information—no strings attached.
For events, teams, and educational settings.
