Yellow Bike Art Series Part II: Creating with Artist Sijben Rosa
YELLOW BIKE SERIES PART II
This is the story of how my yellow bike became part of a unique art installation with Amsterdam-based artist Sijben Rosa. Discover how an unexpected creative connection and spontaneous idea turned into a memorable community art project in Amsterdam West.
Earlier this summer, I met Amsterdam-based artist Sijben Rosa during 24H West, an all-day event that showcases special events across the neighborhood. It's a fantastic way to connect with the community and discover new spots in the city.
That day, I wandered into the De Havelaar community center, where Sijben was working on their latest installation to go inside the Bellamy Cabinets, window displays throughout Amsterdam West featuring rotating works by local artists.
NEW CONNECTIONS SPARK INSPIRATION
As Sijben shared more about the project, they mentioned they still needed one last sentimental item to complete the installation. At that moment, an idea sparked! What about my beloved but now-defunct yellow bike? After hearing my unique story, Sijben was enthusiastic to collaborate. So, we agreed that my bike would be disassembled for the neighborhood art installation. My bike was an Amsterdam icon who deserved a final moment in the spotlight! Donating my bike art felt like an appropriate way to honor our 13-year journey together.
As it turned out, Sijben named their series Hulde, which means Tribute and I couldn't think of a more serendipitous situation.
The morning before dismantling my bike, I decorated my bike with flowers to create a film photography series commemorating our journey together. I love that SIjben and I both found ways to use my bike in our respective art forms.
Later, Sijben turned up with their tools, and we discussed which part to use. The bell was too simple, and the fender didn't quite fit in the display case, so we settled on the bike's rear rack. Its sunflower yellow paint has worn away into a beautiful patina, marks of her years surviving Amsterdam's streets and terrible Dutch weather.
Like any art project, we had to think on our toes, and it took a bit longer than expected, but the experience is part of the creative journey. Despite using my bike daily for years, I never noticed the unique design, it looks like a beetle.
Collaborating with Sijben was a blast! It was refreshing to step away from the screen, get hands-on, and paint while learning another artist’s techniques. Getting lost in the journey of a totally different creative experience and working with someone new is so inspiring.
Once complete, the yellow popped boldly against a deep blue background. I love how it turned out!
Hulde is on display through September 24th in Amsterdam West, and my bike can be found near Jan Pieter Heijestraat 42 / Hasebroekstraat.
CURIOUS FOR MORE?
Join Sijben for a guided walking tour to explore the entire collection.
Sunday, 1 September, 11 am-12:30 pm
Starting point Huis van de Wijk de Havelaar Douwes Dekkerstraat 2
View the event
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Sijben Rosa is an Amsterdam-based visual artist whose work creates new space for found and reclaimed items whose original purpose is left unknown.
Sijben's project Hulde (Tribute) gives new purpose to sentimental personal items from Amsterdammers, with the intention of exploring what makes something valuable. Each 3D item is displayed in an unusual way, mounted on a bold-colored background.
The mysterious shapes and materials invite the viewer to look closer. Are the objects hiding in plain sight? By leaving out much of the recognizable part, Sijben gives the stage to the visual and material sensations.
Each window display includes a story from the items' donor, and visitors can listen to it via QR codes. Sijben Rosa is an Amsterdam-based visual artist whose work creates new space for found and reclaimed items whose original purpose is left unknown.
Hulde is made possible by the Municipality of Amsterdam, the Mondriaan Fund, Rochdale and Stadgenoot. With special thanks to Nanouk van Kwartel, Anna Maria Fernandez and Lily Heaton , Combiwel Oud-West, Huis van de Wijk de Havelaar and 24H West.
