Ciao!

Pim Drinkenburg's Ciao! is the universalm non-verbal gesture of welcoming's and farewells in Amsterdam. Often followed by a handshake, a kiss or a hug, 'ciao!' is the first step in a ritual that opens us up to connect with each other more intimately. In many civilisations, open palms are the gestural symbols for peace and harmony: we show our hands to indicate we mean no harm and invite others in. Ciao!’s changing colour symbolizes Amsterdam’s openness and diversity. It's a fitting symbol of all rituals that start with seeing others. To everyone who calls Amsterdam home, to those who visit, and to those who have yet to arrive, Ciao! says: 'Hello and welcome!'.