Heritage specialist Tom van Eekelen asked artists Mart Franken and Tom Goosen to repaint or restore a number of historic wall advertisements. This is creating some wonderful new sights in the city centre of Bergen op Zoom.

The restoration of old wall advertisements is a wonderful initiative that holds both historical and aesthetic importance. These advertising texts, sometimes disappeared, often weathered by time, offer a unique glimpse into the past and tell stories about the local economy and culture. In Bergen op Zoom, the ‘Sluis’ and ‘Dietvorst’ advertisements are beautiful examples of this heritage. The ‘Sluis’ advertisement, with its characteristic typography and colours, reminds us of a time when these products occupied a prominent place in daily life. The ‘Dietvorst’ advertisement, with its elegant design, reflects the artisanal traditions of the painting trade.

Restoring these wall advertisements not only brings history to life but also contributes to the enhancement of the urban landscape. It is an enjoyable and fulfilling activity for both the restorers and the people of Bergen, who can be proud of preserving their heritage. Furthermore, it stimulates tourism, as visitors are often attracted to these nostalgic works of art. In short, restoring historic wall advertisements is a valuable investment in both the past and the future.