The bronze statue of Tonny van Leeuwen at the entrance of the Euroborg stadium has won the 2024 Public Art Prize. With 27 percent of the votes, the public chose this artwork as their favorite. The statue received many praises. Many appreciated the goalkeeper’s contributions to FC Groningen. For example, Rick called him “a great icon for both the club and the city.” Erna found it “a wonderfully beautiful tribute to a great goalkeeper.” The craftsmanship of artist Lia Krol was also praised: “The sculpture is so realistic and has a very powerful presence,” said Jan. To celebrate the victory, Kunstpunt Groningen handed out cake today at the Euroborg.
Tonny van Leeuwen played for GVAV, the predecessor of FC Groningen, from 1963 to 1971 and is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the club’s history. Artist Lia Krol created the bronze statue, which was gifted to FC Groningen supporters in 2014 to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of their association.
Second and third places went to the Glass Appliqué in the bicycle cellar under Het Groot Handelshuis and the stairway decoration by Jan van der Zee at Donghornsterpad, respectively.
Public Art Prize
The municipality of Groningen has nearly 600 artworks in public spaces. Kunstpunt manages and maintains many of these artworks in collaboration with City Maintenance. The Public Art Prize annually highlights a selection of artworks. This year's theme was art at building entrances. For over two weeks, residents of Groningen could vote for one of the ten nominated artworks. Last year, the award went to ‘Mother and Child Mural’ by Michel Velt in Beijum.