Could a concrete bear with a pillow truly capture the spirit of a neighborhood? Here we are at the Staalman Statue. This is no ordinary sculpture. It’s a symbol of community pride and resilience.
The Staalman Statue is locally known as Staalmanbeer. That translates to Steelman Bear. This concrete statue of a bear with a pillow is located in Staalmanpark. You will find the park at the Ottho Heldringstraat in Amsterdam Slotervaart.
The Staalman Statue’s story began with local school students. They conceived the idea during an arts and design project. Artist Florentijn Hofman designed the sculpture. Job Saltzherr of JobArt managed its realization. Heddes Bouw made and sponsored the pedestal.
The bear itself was crafted using a unique method. Concrete was sprayed onto a backstop. This backstop was suspended from a frame of steel rebar. A natural mineral, silica-based paint finishes its surface. This coating protects against graffiti.
Several organizations contributed to the Staalman Statue’s creation. They include the Amsterdams Fonds voor de Kunst. Also the now defunct Stichting Kunst en Openbare Ruimte. Cirque du Soleil, de Alliantie and the local city district, Stadsdeel Nieuw-West helped.
This impressive bear stands ten meters high. The Staalman Statue reflects the pride of the neighborhood’s residents. It symbolizes their self-sustainability during urban renovation. It also strengthens social bonds within the community.
Hofman says the cushion makes the sturdy bear homely. The cushion represents urban renewal. Residents often had to move houses with a cushion under their arms. It also reflects advice from neighborhood kids. They suggested going to bed early instead of hanging out late.
So, next time you pass by the Staalman Statue remember its deeper meaning. It is more than just a bear with a pillow. It’s a testament to community spirit and perseverance in the face of change. The Staalman Statue is a true representation of Amsterdam-Slotervaart’s heart.