Observe how the stones are arranged. This is Plastische Tekens in Steen. Some call it Stonehenge in Amsterdam. It is located in Amsterdam Nieuw-West. Ben Guntenaar designed this artwork. It features twenty-one stones. These stones are arranged and crafted. They often stand in groups of three. The combination of standing and lying stones is interesting.
In April 1969, the stone group was placed on the Confuciusplein. At that time it was named Pylonen. Guntenaar said the placement of sculptures helps make the space habitable. It helps you feel at home. He felt parks and sculptures are needed. Otherwise, you get a cultureless and uninhabitable desert.
Around 2007, the sculpture was moved. This happened during a redesign of the Confuciusplein. It was relocated to the Australiehavenweg. It stands just north of the Haarlemmerweg crossing. The sculpture rests on a steep hill. This hill is a remnant of a demolished viaduct. Across the road is another artwork. It is Herbert Nouwens’ Aarde.
Ben Guntenaar was interested in the age of stones. He also studied the methods of stonemasons worldwide. He carved twenty-one parts from six blocks of travertine. Then he arranged and worked on them. He would use this dividing technique often in his career. The work resembles Stonehenge. This is because a lying stone rests on two standing stones.
The travertine used in Plastische Tekens in Steen is a limestone. It is found near Tivoli. Guntenaar created Plastische Tekens in Steen in 1969. The work was initially intended for the Confuciusplein. A city restructuring moved it to its current location. This sculpture stands as a testament to Guntenaar’s vision. It brings art into everyday spaces. It enriches the urban environment. Plastische Tekens in Steen offers a unique interpretation of ancient monuments. It encourages reflection and appreciation of the natural world.