In the green space on Burgemeester Stulemeijerlaan, in the heart of the city, lies a special and intriguing work of art, originating from the creative mind and hands of the talented artist Arjanne van der Spek. This artistic work reflects the unique vision of an artist with a profound fascination for the balance and harmony that can be found in symmetry. Symmetry, this almost enchanting concept, forms the core of many of her works and ideas.

Arjanne van der Spek, who is praised by many for her refined use of both natural and modern materials, does not see symmetry solely as a goal to strive for. “Symmetry is something you can use,” she often expresses in reflective dialogues about her work, “and something you can actually make do things by deviating from the symmetrical design.” This vision is subtly interwoven into the artwork that now proudly stands in the public garden.

The terrain on which the artwork is placed, a gently sloping piece of land that effectively provides a stage for the artistic piece, has had a subtle but unmistakable influence on the final form of the artwork. Arjanne used an interesting selection of diverse materials, including bronze, wood, and ferrocement, to express her vision. This choice of diversity in texture and colour contributes to the artwork's distinctive charm. The changing nature of these materials, exposed to the elements and the ravages of time, is a testament to the beauty of the aging process.

The artwork itself comprises four forms that rise upwards in a fan-like arrangement, with the lower wooden structures gradually transitioning into the more robust cement. It almost appears as if these wooden elements, gently bent by an invisible force, continue in a fluid motion before merging into the firm, yet delicate cement. On the highest side of the artwork, one finds a collection of bronze block-like forms that seem to elegantly stack themselves at the top. This stacking at first glance looks as if it could topple at any moment, but is held in balance by a cleverly placed, ascending shadowy blue “tail” that removes this threat of instability.

Over the years, the colours of the different materials have come into greater harmony, as if it were a slowly evolving painting. The wood has aged elegantly, and the cement has gained a deeper, more mysterious character. This creates a play of colours and textures that responds not only to the seasons but also to the imagination of each passer-by.

Despite the artwork not having been given an official title by the artist, who encourages an interpretation-free approach, the town's inhabitants have affectionately nicknamed the sculpture “the clothespin”.

For more information about this image and the other images in our city, visit KidOR, Foundation for Art in Public Spaces.