Nina Hama is the owner of Hama Gallery, a contemporary art gallery on the Willemsparkweg 64H in Amsterdam. As one of the youngest and few female gallerists, her mission is to make the art world more accessible. We discussed the mission behind Hama Gallery, the barriers she aims to break through and the impact of clothing throughout this journey. Nina is pictured here in her one-of-a-kind Mesure look: a light sage green suit with wide trousers, a single-breasted jacket with pearl buttons and a cotton-silk white knit with short sleeves.
What inspired you to start your own art gallery?
As a child, I used to draw and paint a lot, and everything creative attracted me—from photography to fashion and music. I spent a lot of time in galleries and museums, yet I struggled to find a proper and positive representation of myself or a fun and relaxed gallery to visit. This inspired the foundation of Hama Gallery.
How do you think the art world can become more inclusive, and what steps can other galleries and art institutions take to follow your lead?
By creating what you’d like to see yourself, and a real representation of the world around us.
You mainly represent female artists, with a few exceptions. What made you go into this direction and how do you select the artists you represent?
It's been like this from the start: I love female energy and what women create. However, works by female artists are often bought less frequently and for lower prices compared to those by male artists. This disparity is unbelievable, especially in 2024.
What kind of impact do you hope to have through Hama Gallery, and what are your dreams for the future?
I always say, where the percentages are off, we try to add our little piece. For the future, to keep growing the way we do, and we’re expanding to the island of Ibiza, I’m really excited about that and discovering the Spanish market and talents there.
What kind of role does clothing play in your life and work? And what do you look for in a piece?
I used to study fashion first, even though I didn’t pursue a career in it, it’s part of my every day. I don’t have one style, I usually decide what to wear when I wake up, how I feel. What I look for in a piece nowadays is if it’s timeless and sustainable, and if it can be mixed up easily with other pieces when I feel like dressing up or not.
Could you talk more about your Mesure creation and what made you choose it?
At this point it is no secret that I love everything green, haha. Green is an integral part of Hama Gallery's branding. So, it was only right that this suit was a shade of green. We chose linen because of the time of year—it’s fresh, soft on the skin, and never goes out of style.
Would you like to create your one-of-a-kind item? Book an appointment at our store in Amsterdam.