Mysteries of Helperzoom – Will Beckers (2019)
Realised art in public spaces
Commissioned by the CBK and the Municipality of Groningen, visual artist Will Beckers created two works of art for the cycle route along the Helperzoom. The reason for these two works of art is the important ecological zone that lies along the Helperzoom. This area comprises the migration, foraging and habitat spaces for some 250 plant species and 100 animal species. Mysteries of Helperzoom zooms in on the nature present and enlarges it significantly so it becomes visible to cyclists, residents and other passers-by who make use of the Helperzoom.
Mysteries of Helperzoom
Based on a plant and an animal from the area, the work combines Corten steel and hazel wickerwork to create a living, dynamic sculpture which, depending on the time of year and weather, will always look different. The sculptures themselves also add ecology and greenery to the area. Both sculptures are specifically designed for this location and finished with hazel (Corylus avellana). The work on the north side forms part of the squirrel link to be built between the Helperzoom and the Sterrebos. The open woven spaces of the works of art also form the perfect hiding and sleeping places for squirrels and other small animal species.
Ecological zone
The ecological zone along the Helperzoom is home to approximately 250 plant species and 100 animal species. The plants and flowers provide food for insects, butterflies, dragonflies and birds. The strip is also important for amphibians (frogs and toads), bats and other small mammals. The zone has many trees, some of which are inhabited by colonies of bats. The biggest trendsetters for this zone are species such as the green woodpecker, long-eared owl, kingfisher, squirrel, water bat, rampion, wild marjoram, broad-leaved orchid, burnet, pool frog, newt and the emperor dragonfly.
Will Beckers
Visual artist Will Beckers specialises in creating site-specific natural installations that explore our relationship with the natural world. His work often takes the form of cinematic sculpture or a growing organism in which he confronts nature with its own materials. His work forms a dialogue with the landscape in clear shapes and in direct contact with nature.