haarlemsdagbladFeb 22, 2026, 09:55

Who was Verspronck’s ‘Girl in Blue’? In-depth research leads to nothing. ‘Fascination and frustration go hand in hand’

Johannes Verspronck’s famous painting "Girl in Blue" will be displayed at the Frans Hals Museum from March 12 to October 11 alongside portraits of her likely parents. Although the artwork is a celebrated piece from the Rijksmuseum, extensive research into the specific identity of the girl remains inconclusive.

Culture Amsterdam Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Looking for a friendly chat? Step into the yellow square at the station on Wednesday

To promote social connection, the Week of the Chat initiative is launching in Haarlem on October 14, featuring a designated yellow zone at the train station where people can meet for casual conversations. Inspired by research from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the project aims to help individuals feel happier and less lonely by encouraging social interaction and boosting confidence.

Focus on late ADHD diagnosis in women during lecture in Haarlem

Psychologie Magazine and the Museum van de Geest will host a lecture on late ADHD diagnoses in women on November 26 in Haarlem. Psychiatrist and researcher Dr. Dora Wynchank will share her expertise on the subject during the evening event.

Meike (33) is editor-in-chief of ADE: ‘I could cry with pride now that I see our campaign in the city’

Meike Jentjens is the editor-in-chief of the Amsterdam Dance Event, where she oversees editorial strategy and manages coverage for the festival's 1,300 events. Having transitioned from a music journalist to a key leader in the organization, she now balances content production with moderating high-profile industry discussions.

Radio maker Iwan Bottse (1950-2026) was 'principled, stubborn and afraid of nothing'

Radio producer Iwan Bottse has passed away at the age of 76 after a nearly fifty-year career in broadcasting. He was well known for providing news and stories to the Surinamese and Antillean communities in Amsterdam.