From a helicopter, it descended. The Long Hum, a large, stainless steel disc, found its home in Amsterdam’s Gijsbrecht van Aemstelpark in 1969. This intriguing sculpture, created by Theo Niermeijer, represents the final syllable (“hum”) of the Buddhist mantra “Om mani padme hum”. The Long Hum isn’t just a visually striking piece. It’s a gong-shaped disc, measuring 1.5 meters in radius, mounted on a holder and resting on two concrete pedestals. Niermeijer himself acknowledged that passersby might not grasp the sculpture’s meaning at first glance. He suggested viewing The Long Hum as a form of exorcism, a ward against evil. The five characters inscribed on the disc refer to the Path of the Five Wisdoms according to Buddha, adding another layer to its symbolic meaning. Theo Niermeijer, inspired by his travels through Asia, incorporated elements of Buddhism into his art. He often used materials salvaged from shipyards, transforming discarded remnants into expressions of Eastern philosophy. The Long Hum stands as a testament to his unique artistic vision, blending industrial materials with spiritual concepts. The dramatic arrival of The Long Hum, suspended from a helicopter, marked its place in Amsterdam’s artistic landscape. Today, it continues to resonate with those who pause to consider its deeper meaning.
The Long Hum Sculpture
Discover cities like never before.
Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.
More Places in Amsterdam
RK Begraafplaats Overtuin
Tranquility surrounds you. You stand before RK Begraafplaats Buitenveldert. This isn’t just any cemetery. It’s a place steeped in history.
Boterhuisbrug
Slipping through time, let’s journey back to a small fishing village nestled beside the Amstel River. Imagine Amsterdam in the
Landgoed Duin en Kruidberg
How did a modest hunting lodge become a five-star hotel? Welcome to Landgoed Duin en Kruidberg a place where history
Spoorbrug HIJSM
Slipping through time, let’s find ourselves in 1837 Amsterdam. Excitement crackled in the air. The Hollandsche IJzeren Spoorweg-Maatschappij (HIJSM), the
de Bibliotheek Hillegom
Have you ever felt the quiet hum of turning pages? Right here before you stands de Bibliotheek Hillegom. This unassuming
Cornelis Ritterbrug
How many stories could this humpbacked bridge tell? The Cornelis Ritterbrug stands before us a testament to Amsterdam’s intricate network