A small figure of a skipper standing atop of stone pedestal defines the Maritime Monument ‘D’n Ouwe’ in Hertogenbosch, in the Netherlands. By providing a distinct identity to an otherwise empty patch of waterfront in such an imaginative way, the monument showcases how a simple landmark can both connect and attract audiences.
“The Old One” or “The Skipper”
Created by Rudolf Gras & Ton Buijnsters in 1991, the Maritime Monument ‘D’n Ouwe‘ is also known as “The Old One” or “The Skipper” on account of the small characture of a sailor that is the most notable element of the location. With a pipe in his mouth and residing in front of a large anchor, the pieces invite questions and curiosity from audiences on multiple levels, compelling them to interact with and interpret what they find in the space. This notoriety is further augmented by the benches that allow them to simply relax and take in the serene settings of the the Dieze river that runs through the center of Hertogenbosch.
Located in Zuid Willemsvaart / Handelskade, the location has become a popular spot for residents to gather and for visitors to stop by either on foot or as part of a tour of the area. These connections have been enabled thanks to this small monument that has helped to transform it from just another stretch of water into a place of connection.
Small Landmarks, Monumentous Impact
Large squares, plazas and waterfronts are dominated by monuments of tremendous size, but the Maritime Monument in Hertogenbosch showcases that such landmarks don’t need to be enormous to house attractions that can cultivate similar connections. The imagination that enabled the creation of ‘D’n Ouwe’ showcases how such spaces and landmarks can make an impact, no matter their size or location.
