I created this piece specifically for the exhibition Wedergeboorte. I wanted to present something special—something that tells a meaningful story about Schiedam and its people. But also about myself. After all, I’ve been living here for eight years, and I’m still working on making this place my own.
This year, Schiedam celebrates the 750th anniversary of being granted city rights—an event that’s both historic and deeply inspiring. What makes it truly special is that the celebration involves the entire community that shapes this city. The places we live in shape us in return; whether we like it or not, we become part of them.
The painting I created features a human figure in all the colors of the rainbow, symbolizing the rich diversity of Schiedam’s population. At its center is a map of Schiedam’s city center, shaped like a heart. This has an allegorical meaning: the center is the beating heart of the city, the place where everything begins and where the most important events take place. The heart includes architectural landmarks that define Schiedam—most notably, the exceptionally tall windmills that set it apart from other cities.
Besides being part of the Wedergeboorte exhibition, this work was also selected for display at the De Kameel windmill as part of the IDDF Around Town celebrations. It was printed on a large 6x6 meter canvas and hung in a prominent location, visible from the Proveniersbrug, from May 20 to June 2. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate. Strong winds damaged the canvas—probably three times. But before the wind took its toll, it looked fantastic!
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