Submerged yet visible. That’s the magic of the Nijlpaard. Right here before us rests this colossal hippopotamus. A six by three-meter marvel of rubber. It’s the Nijlpaard sculpture. Created by artist Tom Claassen in 2004 it sits in a canal lock on Amsterdam’s IJburg.
The Nijlpaard isn’t just any hippo. It’s a testament to artistic vision. Commissioned by the Amsterdam Fund for the Arts. It’s more than just a sculpture. It’s a functional work of art. The special rubber absorbs the bumps from passing boats. Think of it as a giant, friendly fender protecting the lock.
Interestingly the Nijlpaard wasn’t always so easily seen. Depending on the water level. Parts or all of the hippo can disappear beneath the surface. It’s like a playful game of hide-and-seek between the sculpture and the water.
The artist Tom Claassen intended it this way. He saw the Nijlpaard as belonging to the amphibious atmosphere between land and water. It actually sits on the bottom of the IJmeer lake. It fits perfectly into IJburg’s masterplan. A whole new city district built in the middle of the water.
The Nijlpaard is a unique piece in the series of Sunday Sculptures. Stadscuratorium Amsterdam posts them on Instagram every Sunday. This magnificent hippo has become a landmark a talking point and a symbol of Amsterdam’s creative spirit. It’s the first artwork installed in IJburg. The Nijlpaard stands as a unique testament to art blending seamlessly with nature and urban planning. Enjoy this fascinating sculpture. A truly unforgettable sight.