Large turnout and creative energy at the first edition of MEER-art in Badhoevedorp
The organizers, Piet Dees and Peter Mulder, look back on a successful weekend, with many enthusiastic visitors and participants.
Alderman Marja Ruigrok opened the event by turning on the spotlights on the artworks and then painting her own artwork in the workshop. She is a jack of all trades, given her creativity and painting speed.
Whopping 25 exhibitors presented their 2D and 3D artworks to the public. The versatile artworks were judged by a professional jury and the audience present, who actively thought along and watched. At the end of the weekend, Esther van Overbeek named winner of the professional jury prize, a recognition for exceptional artistic talent. The audience award was won by Diana Gorter with her beautiful recycled art.
The youngest visitors were also taken into consideration. Children aged 6 to 12 could take part in a watercolor painting workshopwhile it Youth workshop of Cpunt led by Maxime Velthuis created an impressive mural. For the older visitors there was the opportunity to get started themselves and paint a masterpiece, under the inspiring guidance of Peter Mulder.
The substantive programme offered depth for art lovers. Gerhard ten Hoopen gave a fascinating lecture on the mysteriously controversial Gleaner of Van Gogh – is it a real Van Gogh or not? Piet Dees also talked about the placement of the artwork The Water Wolf, another special initiative within the municipality of Haarlemmermeer.
The atmosphere was further enhanced on Sunday by the live music by Cees Rot, which provided a warm ending to a creative and connecting weekend.
MORE-art marks an important moment: for the first time a large number of artists from Haarlemmermeer presented themselves to the public togetherThis represents a valuable step towards greater visibility and collaboration within the local art scene.