Four new art installations unveiled in Werkspoorkwartier
A new chapter in the creative development of the Werkspoorkwartier – Utrecht’s ex-industrial area – was marked on 1 October, when four new temporary art installations were unveiled.
Supported by the HUB-IN team and the Bedrijvenkring Cartesiusweg (BKC), artists from various creative hubs within Werkspoorkwartier presented their vision to enhance the public space. The four projects selected challenge visitors to experience the area in new and innovative ways. The installations reflect both the historical heritage and the future ambitions of Werkspoorkwartier.
A new way to experience Werkspoorkwartier
G as a Gesture by Bas Oussoren, a monumental wooden sculpture, is located on Vlampijpstraat. The artist’s take on the iconic Dutch approval mark offers both a playful nod to bureaucracy and a positive landmark for the neighborhood.
The Delayed Gaze by Taco Jansonius and Daniël Roozendaal consists of two sculptures that combine industrial elements and local flora. Positioned on Nijverheidsweg, these works not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also encourage slower driving through a natural guiding effect.
Sculptural Car Installation by Jonathan Straatman and Colin Benders, a mysterious and interactive piece, raises questions with its shifting location and intriguing sounds emanating from a repurposed Mercedes.
Rusted Roots by Etta Harkness Bartholdi and Roel Weerdenburg, a pergola constructed from recycled materials, serves as a resting spot amid the industrial bustle, while also promoting the area’s greening.
The installations will be on display for the next two years, featured in the online audio tour Hoor het Werkspoor! and included in the new map of the area.
Connecting people, creating synergies
The successful opening was attended also by artists, municipal representatives (including the Deputy Mayor of Culture), local entrepreneurs, and organisers of cultural hubs in the Werkspoorkwartier.
The reactions were very positive. As Bianca Ernst, board member of the BKC HUB said: The opening of the artworks was well attended. This demonstrates the strong engagement of entrepreneurs and artists in the Werkspoorkwartier. It is also nice to see that the creation of the artworks has ensured more connection and cooperation in the area.
Gianfranco Colangelo, who works in the Werkspoorkwartier said: In addition to four beautiful works of art, the HUB-IN project has fostered new, unexpected collaborations: makers and designers who did not know each other submitted a plan together. The artists helped each other during the creation of the works of art, and people from the area jumped in to help where necessary. Great to see this happening.
Daan Bramer, initiator of a cultural hub in the area added: The HUB-IN open call in the Werkspoorkwartier proves that art in the public space connects. Not only between people and makers but also with the environment, thus bringing the area even more to life.
With these interventions, the Werkspoorkwartier continues its transformation into a vibrant, creative, and circular production area, supported by our BKC HUB and HUB-IN.
Click here to learn more on Utrecht’s HUB-IN Action Plan!
