Silhouettes – Woven Waters
Stories of Struggle and Survival
Introduction: Simon Gerssen’s “Woven Waters” stands as a monumental testament to the resilience of a community shaped by the seas. Originating from the historic fishery village of Urk, these sculptures, ranging between 120 and 200 cm in height, embody the spirit of a community facing profound changes.
Concept and Inspiration: “Woven Waters” is deeply rooted in the current plight of Urk’s fishing industry, grappling with governmental regulations, environmental shifts, and the advent of wind energy parks that drastically reduce fishing activities. Gerssen channels the collective angst and transformation of the local fishermen into his art, offering a vivid narrative of transition from sea to shore.
Artistic Process and Challenges: Crafting these sculptures involves intricate design and painstaking labor, especially in manipulating the forms of fishing nets into enduring art. Gerssen spends countless hours perfecting each piece, ensuring they accurately represent the tangled, complex nature of both the nets and the lives they symbolize.
Symbolism and Impact: The frozen state of the nets in Gerssen’s sculptures symbolizes the cessation of fishing activities, embodying themes of change, hope, and the indomitable will to survive. This symbolism serves as a poignant reminder of the community’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Materials and Techniques: Gerssen uses fir wood treated with the Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique, where the wood is charred to enhance its durability and aesthetic. This method also metaphorically represents the burning away of old identities and the rebirth of the community. Accents of natural stone in the sculptures add a touch of permanence and solidity, anchoring the fleeting nets in a tangible reality.
Cultural Reflection: For locals, “Woven Waters” resonates deeply without need for explanation; it’s a clear reflection of their collective journey from despair to hope. For outsiders, these sculptures provide a powerful insight into the community’s capability to adapt and thrive against the backdrop of inevitable change.
Audience Reception: The local community sees these sculptures as a mirror to their experiences, requiring no further elucidation. Outsiders are drawn into the narrative of transformation and resilience, often moved by the depth of the story these artworks tell.
Future Directions: Gerssen is enthusiastic about expanding his material repertoire to include wood, stone, and bronze in future sculptures. This material evolution promises to explore new themes and expressions, continuing the narrative of resilience and adaptation.