At Metrostation Jan van Galenstraat, a series of 34 colorful portraits and inspiring life mottos of local residents, created by artist Serge Verheugen, now shines. Serge, himself living in Oost, moved into Nieuw-West and was amazed by the space, the beauty, the greenery and also the positivity of the district. ‘There is so much benevolence here. Everywhere there are breeding places, community centers and kind people who dedicate themselves to their environment. Those people I wanted to put on a pedestal, because they make the neighborhood beautiful.’
This artwork, intended to make the often grim station more accessible, celebrates the diversity and resilience of New West. Verheugen chose residents who dedicate themselves to the neighborhood, such as Saloua, who created a sports place for young girls, and Achmad, who is able to sing in freedom after his flight from Syria.
Every week, het stadscuratorium posts a Sunday Sculpture on Instagram, the story behind an artwork in public space that gives colour to the city of Amsterdam.
Image: @jonnelucia
