On Thursday evening, 15 January, the artwork “On-eenig” was unveiled in the Grote Kerk in Dordrecht. It is a work of art commemorating 400 years of the Synod of Dordrecht and has been included in the permanent collection of the Municipality of Dordrecht.

During the Synod of Dordrecht in 1618 and 1619, delegates from various countries gathered in Dordrecht to discuss faith, doctrine and church order. It was an event that had a major impact, not only on the Netherlands but also internationally. For example, the decision was taken to translate the Bible into Dutch.

Mayor Nanning Mol: ‘Beliefs sometimes clash, opinions harden. That is precisely why I think it is important to look back to a time when words, arguments and consultation were central. Not because everything went perfectly then, but because it shows that talking together is always better than remaining opposed to each other.’

‘This artwork is an invitation to continue to see Dordrecht as a city where differences are allowed to exist. Where conviction goes hand in hand with responsibility. And where we continue to look for ways to keep talking to each other.’

The artwork consists of 33 mussels, made from recycled waste material. The mussels open and close when visitors speak.

Artist Jelle Korevaar chose this metaphor. "In two weeks' time, the mussels in the Wadden Sea purify all the water in the North Sea. This makes them invaluable. If they remain silent, everything becomes poisoned.

‘That's how I see our public debate. Often messy, harsh and unattractive. But essential to keeping our democracy alive. As long as we continue to speak, listen, filter and respond, our society will remain healthy. But if voices are silenced, if mistrust or one-sidedness are allowed to take hold, it too will slowly become poisoned.’

Thanks to the Municipality of Dordrecht, Dordrechts Museum, the Grote Kerk Dordrecht and many others for this wonderful commission.

Check www.grotekerk-dordrecht.nl for current visitor information.

Address:

Grote Kerk

Lange Geldersekade 2

3311 CJ Dordrecht