Since 2018, the May 4 monument by artist Nina Rave has stood on Columbusplein in Amsterdam-West. It replaces the old white cross in front of the Visserschool. The annual commemoration in De Baarsjes takes place here.
The artwork consists of a large dark block balancing on a golden sphere. The block represents evil. The sphere stands for resistance, hope, self-esteem, and humanity. The dented shape shows that these values are under pressure but do not succumb.
More than eighty fingerprints, carved by children, young people, and local residents, are incorporated into the surface of the block. The pedestal is engraved in granite with the words: “We remember those who suffered, those who died, those who fought.”
The monument was created in close collaboration with the neighborhood. The Visserschool adopted the work. The golden sphere reflects the surroundings, and with it the presence of those who are no longer there.
📸 I. Zoeteweij & Buitenkunst
