“TELL US THE TRUTH”

An exhibition by Arthur Stokvis

Opening reception with the artist & performance:
Saturday, February 14th 17:00 20:00
Exhibition dates:
February 14th March 28th , 2026

Ten Haaf Projects is pleased to announce: “TELL US THE TRUTH”, a solo exhibition by
Arthur Stokvis.

In recent months, the artist has been immersed in the creation of new canvases for this
presentation. Arthur Stokvis often depicts desolate sceneries, including landscapes with
caves. Over these images, bright neon texts in punk inspired lettering are drawn directly
onto the surface, confronting the viewer with an urgent, almost aggressive presence.

The works on view prioritise visual impact over narrative. They range from ugly to
elegant, from nostalgic to deliberately displeasing, forming an eclectic collection of
striking images that linger in the viewer’s memory.

While the works themselves resist narrative, they are shaped by recurring motifs and
ideas. Arthur Stokvis has spent recent years researching conspiracy theories, a process
that deeply influences his work. Where is civilisation heading in a world where such
theories are just a s much accepted as established truth, science and reason?

The work of Stokvis is at first glance innocent, but on closer inspection it seems to predict
disaster. What begins as a utopian dream turns into an apocalyptic nightmare. The
exhibition title Tel l Us the Truth is borrowed from the 1978 track by the working class
punk band Sham 69. In an era of “fact free politics”, the truth is more urgent than ever.

Download press invitation

Arthur Stokvis, born in 1981, studied at Minerva Academy in Groningen and at the Royal
Academy of Arts in Ghent, Belgium. He has exhibited widely across Europe and India,
among other locations. His work can be found in important private and institutional
collections. This is his second solo show at Ten Haaf Projects.

On the opening night, 14 February, performance artist Magique Jean Jean will present a
special opening ceremony.