The Hague Sculpture

Free Art? That sounds like a liberation movement for some poor fellow in an obscure jail somewhere, or the next movie about an overweight sea lion trapped in a tiny pool. But in fact it is enjoying creative art in beautiful surroundings for free!

Yearly each summer (June – August) art hits the streets of The Hague. On, and in the area of ‘Lange Voorhout’ (The Hague’s most beautiful tree covered lane) many sculptures tantalise the imagination of the public. Most of the pieces are outdoors, some are inside in nearby historical or cultural interesting buildings.

Every year the open exhibition focuses on a different country and theme. With The Hague being the international city for justice and peace, and having a strong relationship with the USA (which has democratic elections coming up) the organisation though ‘Freedom’ would be a nice choice. I’d say they are right.

This year, all of the sculptures are tangible results of the creative processes of American artists. It is interesting to see how each artist has interpreted freedom in his or her own way and to see some are influenced by their state culture. All in all there are 31 sculptures, 20 of them on Lange Voorhout, the others scattered in the area. I say sculptures, but some of the artwork isn’t really a sculpture. There is a conceptual wristband with belonging text page in the newspaper, there are two video presentations (continue) and a hot air balloon shaped like the head of George W Bush :) an artwork by Paul McCarthy.

Some of the art is work in progress. Next to the information booth there’s a pigeon house, a metal cage actually, with an opening. The artist placed pigeons inside and now they are free to go, or to stay in of course. So, when you visit The Hague Sculpture this year, perhaps you’ll see some pigeons in a cage, perhaps none at all. Perhaps some of the pigeons have joined their friends on the roofs of the city :) Perhaps they’ll shit on your car. What ever they do, remember: it is art! ;)

Although I always like to interpret sculptures on my own and for myself, handouts are available to read all about the different constructions, concepts, meanings, artists and their background. I Took a few pictures while I was there, but only to convince you to come see and experience this for yourself :) Enjoy!