On the occasion of the opening of the renovated City Hall, the Municipal Executive has donated a new painting to the Municipality of Groningen: Hermes en Athena in Groningen. The work was created by Egbert Modderman and is full of symbolism. It was unveiled today by mayor Koen Schuiling and former alderman Roeland van der Schaaf.
Egbert Modderman (Heerenveen, 1989) made the painting for the municipality of Groningen. In honor of the renovated town hall in 2022, it has been hung at the entrance of the new Council Chamber. It is a large painting, measuring no less than 4 x 1.50 meters.
Classic ode to Groningen
The painting is a classic ode to Groningen. Gods from ancient Greece are depicted in a contemporary way against a background of the Groningen colors white and green. In the center are Athena (the goddess of wisdom) and Hermes (the god of commerce). They've just partnered up here at City Hall.
Next to the two gods are their witnesses: on the left Artemis (the goddess of the night) and her companion Callisto. Right Apollo (the god of the day) and his beloved Hyakinthos. The painting thus shows three versions of a happy partnership, as they are still concluded day in and day out in Groningen.
City Hall Collection
The painting donated to the city is part of a tradition that dates back more than a century. During important events, works of art have been made on behalf of the municipality that have since been part of the City Hall Collection. Are you curious about which works this colection consists of? You will find an overview on our website.
Would you like to see the inside of the new City Hall and admire the art collection there? On Saturday 10 September, the City Hall will be open as part of Open Monumentendag. In addition, guided tours of the City Hall will be organized at various times in the autumn. For more information, keep an eye on the website of the municipality of Groningen.