Germaine Kruip pays tribute to vanished ferry in Maasmechelen
Maasmechelen will soon gain a special work of art: “Reflection” by Dutch artist Germaine Kruip.
The sound sculpture will be placed on the historic site of the vanished ferry between Meeswijk and Urmond and is a poetic tribute to the connection across the Meuse.
The instrument incites action and at the same time invites contemplation. Through sound, the site’s past echoes into the present, creating a living and shared memory.
A silent force on the shore
“Reflection” is not just an artwork, but also an instrument. A five-metre-long brass beam, floating between two slender ten-metre-high poles, produces a deep sound when visitors strike it with a specially designed beater. The tone refers to the bell of the old ferry that could be heard at this spot until the 1950s – a subtle invitation to rest, reflection and connection.
Two resting benches in black granite complete the work. They invite you to sit down for a moment, let the sound sink in and take in the view of the river. According to alderman of culture of Maasmechelen, Corrie Bemelmans, the work of art is therefore much more than a visual addition: ““Reflection” is a silent force on our bank. It offers a place to unwind and invites you to rediscover our landscape – with different eyes and ears.”
When & Where?
The artwork will be along the embankment on the Meuse, between cycle junctions 50 and 56, about 1 km from the car ferry. The orange (10 km) and blue (5 km) walking routes of walking area Leut also pass here.
If everything goes according to plan, by the end of August 2025, you will be able to come and listen, watch and experience for yourself.
On 24 August, Tom De Cock and Giulia Vismara will present a site-specific composition to sonically activate the sculpture.
The project is a collaboration between Musica and Z33, House for Contemporary Art, Design and Architecture.