Pieter de Nooij exhibition explores family history and local legacy in Ede

An exhibition titled ‘Meesterschilders in Ede: Pieter de Nooij’ is currently being held at Huis Kernhem, running until August 16. The showcase highlights the work of Ede-based painter Pieter de Nooij and explores the history of the De Nooij family.

The family played a significant role in the local economy and social life of Ede. Their business roots trace back to 1879 with the founding of W. de Nooij & Zn. by Willem de Nooij. His sons later established the Macostan paint factory in 1919, which eventually moved to a modern facility in the Frankeneng I industrial estate, officially opened in 1965.

Beyond industry, the family was active in church and community life. During the Second World War, members of the De Nooij family participated in the resistance, using the paint factory to assemble food parcels for prisoners and providing shelter to individuals evading the occupying forces.