Pit Portaal

Nestled among the trees of Amstelpark, PIT Portaal awaits. This intriguing black, spiky structure, created by artist Karin van Dam, isn’t just an artwork. It’s a portal to a different way of seeing the world. PIT Portaal appeared in Amstelpark in the spring of 2021. It stands proudly between the Glass House and the Red Bridge, beckoning visitors to explore its mysteries. The artwork was inspired by the artist’s fascination with seeds. Karin van Dam discovered this fascination during visits to the Belmonte Arboretum in Wageningen. She found seeds everywhere, in dried hydrangea blossoms, prickly chestnuts, and withered rosehips. These tiny vessels of life, holding the promise of future generations, captivated her imagination. PIT Portaal is a tribute to this life cycle. The spiky exterior might seem forbidding at first, but don’t let that deter you. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in a unique sensory experience. The scent of nature wafts through the cracks in the walls. The open roof allows sunlight to stream in, casting the world outside in a new light. Van Dam believes that a whole universe resides within the smallest seed. We, as humans, are part of this universe too. PIT Portaal allows us to connect with this natural world in a tangible way. It reminds us of the continuous cycle of life and the powerful forces of growth that transcend human timescales. PIT Portaal is more than just an art piece. It’s a space for reflection, a reminder of our place in the natural world, and an invitation to see the world through a different lens. It’s a unique experience within Amstelpark, waiting to be discovered.