ROTTERDAM, 5 June 2023 – The centenary of the foundation of Volkskracht, a momentous occasion steeped in Rotterdam's history, was marked by the unveiling of an engaging mural at the city's Hofbogen.
A century of Volkskracht
Harking back to 7 November 1923, harbour baron Willem Burger established the foundation of Volkskracht (Stichting Bevordering van Volkskracht), aiming to foster the people's strength of Rotterdam's citizens. To celebrate a century of Volkskracht, a mural featuring a poem by Moze Naél was revealed at the Hofbogen by the Opperclaes artists' collective.
A mural on the Hofbogen wall
The large, five-metre-high wall of Hofbogen, situated near Boekhorststraat and the Grafisch Lyceum, now exhibits the word “VOLKSKRACHT” in vibrant letters, a design envisioned by the Opperclaes artists. The word stretches over 65 meters along the wall, incorporating Moze Naél's poem: an ode to Rotterdam, specifically composed for Volkskracht. Excerpts from the poem are set to be featured in two other yet to be determined locations in the city. Visitors can understand more about Volkskracht and its work by scanning the accompanying QR code.
A gift for Rotterdam
“The poem is a birthday gift from Volkskracht, for all Rotterdammers,” shared Jacqueline Frima, the chair of Volkskracht. "We hope people will pause, look up, and think: yes, this is Rotterdam."
A tapestry of characters form Rotterdam
The mural and the poem were officially unveiled today. The Hofbogen wall has no defined boundary, and the letter shapes are flexible, echoing the diverse characters of Rotterdam, according to Linda van der Vleuten of the Opperclaes collective. “There is no city with more 'volkskracht' (people's strength), resilience, and vigour than Rotterdam,” she said, explaining that the bright colours are intended to enliven the otherwise dull street.
The word stretches over 65 meters along the wall, incorporating Moze Naél's poem: an ode to Rotterdam, specifically composed for Volkskracht
Directions to the Hofbogen mural
To reach the mural, follow the directions to De Hofbogen, located near Boekhorststraat and the Grafisch Lyceum in Rotterdam. This vibrant mural is situated in a dynamic neighbourhood filled with creativity and architectural gems.
