What if a giant, anxious rabbit could speak? Here in Flevopark, Amsterdam, the Angstig konijn (Anxious Rabbit) sculpture might just whisper its secrets if you listen closely. This larger-than-life, three-meter-tall polyester sculpture by Piet Parra isn’t just any park decoration. It’s a statement. Unveiled during the 2018 Appelsap Fresh Music Festival, Angstig konijn captures the feeling of being overwhelmed in an increasingly busy city. The rabbit, a self-portrait of the artist, covers its ears, a metaphor for those who feel bombarded by the constant demands of urban life. Officially titled “Leave Me Alone But Put Me on the Guestlist,” this sculpture resonates with many. It speaks to the tension between wanting solitude and still desiring to be part of the vibrant city life. Initially intended as a temporary installation, the Angstig konijn quickly became a beloved fixture. Thanks to community support and approval from the city, this anxious bunny found its permanent home in Flevopark. Parra, known for his work in Amsterdam’s hip-hop scene, designed the sculpture with support from the Mondriaan Fund and WeTransfer, following a petition by the Appelsap festival organizers. The sculpture, made of steel, PUR foam, and fiberglass-reinforced polyester, weighs a hefty 400 kilograms. The pointy snout, a signature Parra touch, contrasts with the rounded, hunched form of the rabbit. So next time you’re in Flevopark, take a moment to contemplate Angstig konijn. This poignant piece of art is more than just a giant rabbit. It’s a reflection of our own anxieties and a symbol of the challenges of modern urban living.
Royal Tropical Institute
From a colonial museum’s humble start in Haarlem in 1864, the Royal Tropical Institute blossomed in Amsterdam. Its journey began