The state of things (De stand der dingen)

About this artwork.

Following a new traffic design for Prinsesseweg, Maree Blok and Bas Lugthart were commissioned to create a work of art for the central reservation of the road. The CBK Groningen, which issued the commission on behalf of the municipality, asked for an sculpture that matched the atmosphere of the district. It had to be clearly visible to pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike.
 
Blok and Lugthart were inspired by the names of the streets and squares in the district, which refer to the Oranje-Nassau dynasty. This royal allure was also reflected in the urban layout of the district, in which Nassaulaan and Prinsesseweg form the central axes. Both roads are spacious and have a stately appearance with their wide central reservation and double row of trees. It used to be customary to place a statue of a prince or general in such an environment. These people were literally placed on a pedestal.
 
Blok and Lugthart also placed a figure on a plinth, but upside down. The hands find support on the ground and on the slightly tilted plinth. The legs protrude into the air and on one of the feet balances a construction reminiscent of a planetary system. For the artists, the figure symbolises a longing for a unity of man with the surrounding nature; man is no longer above the world, but comes off his pedestal.

Facts & Figures.

• Design
  Bas Lugthart
  Maree Blok

• District
  Oranjebuurt (incl. Noorderplantsoen)

• Year of creation
  1994

• Art type
  Freestanding sculpture

• Material
  Marble, Steel, Plastic

• Dimensions
  h 6,00 m