VAN KASTJE NAAR CANVASJE
2024
WILLEM ARNTZKADE
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WILLEMIJN
VAN DE WETERING
I work as an architect primarily for private clients. What I enjoy most is adding a new element to an existing building. I find the history of a building or place very fascinating, which is why I like to search through drawings and photos in archives. Besides my architectural work, I also love painting and drawing. For birthdays, births, and other events, I create personalized graphic cards with lots of color. My paintings are often reinterpretations of photos, featuring vivid colors and occasionally a touch of humor.
The story behind the artwork
The box is located at the intersection of Johannes de Bekastraat, Draaiweg, Zwarte Water, and Willem Arntszkade/Zaagmolenkade—a unique crossroads with a lot of history.
From the stories shared by local residents, there was a deep affection for the neighborhood. The family has lived in the area for several generations and has witnessed its transformation: the Zwarte Water was filled in, and a beloved chestnut tree was cut down and replaced by a young sapling.
This narrative and the history of the place inspired me to depict the vanished elements on the three sides of the box, preserving the memories that have remained.
The left side of the box is adjacent to Johannes de Bekastraat 24. During my research in the archives of the municipality of Utrecht, I discovered that until around 1938, this building housed a depot of the bakery ‘De Korenschoof’. This inspired me to place an image of a cake on this side.
The story of the lost chestnut tree inspired me to depict the tree in various forms: its blossom, its shell, the sprouting chestnut, and its leaves. This illustration flows from the left side, across the front, to the right side of the box.
The right side of the box faces Johannes de Bekastraat 24. On the blind gable wall, there is a bricked-up window frame, which inspired me to create an image of an open window with a view as it once was: the water flowing along the quay, the small bridge over the water, and the farmhouse where the box now stands.
How did the painting go?
Painting the box was a wonderful experience. It was so enjoyable to work outdoors. Although the schedule ran a bit over, I didn’t mind at all. It’s almost a shame that it’s finished now. The residents and passersby were very enthusiastic and pleased that the drab box was brightened up. Nearly everyone asked if I would also paint the large fiber optic box further down the street… Who knows! I would certainly love to do that, especially in collaboration with the residents.
One tourist from Germany even came back with his wife and children to see the progress. I was also very well taken care of with cups of coffee, cans of soda, cookies, and chips. Such kindness and fun.
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