In blue (In ‘t blauw)

In blue (In ‘t blauw)

The Van der Helstplein is a lively spot in the Pijp area of Amsterdam; it is a square marked and dominated by image-defining, tall plane trees. In fact, the plane trees are a sculpture in themselves. The ‘In blue’ artwork was developed based on this idea and the wish to keep the square functionally open. Between the trees is an ellipse of blue stones laid in the paving. Sunken in the paving are 21 lamps that illuminate the square at night: a simple image with a great effect, that strengthens the spatial structure of the square in a poetic way. Size of the square: 45 x 15 metres.
Current situation 2024: After more than 30 years, the work of art is no longer what it was: much less visible due to more terraces, faded tiles, deterioration of tree grates, non-working lamps and poor maintenance.