Artwork Canal Diggers - Erica

In honour of the many canal diggers who once lived in Erica, artist Willem Kind created the impressive sculpture ‘The Canal Diggers’. This work of art recalls the hard work involved in canal construction and symbolises the togetherness of the time. The sculpture depicts two stylised diggers, one digging up earth and the other damping it down, as a symbolic representation of the birth and disappearance of canals.

The work of art was officially handed over to the village by mayor Hans Ouwerkerk in 1988, on Erica's 125th anniversary. Made of stainless steel, the sculptures bear the visible traces of the craft process used by Willem Kind, an innovative artist from Rotterdam. His welding technique gives the sculpture its unique look, with seams playing a conscious role in the design. Kind, known for such works as the ‘Kop van Borger’, was an independent thinker who made his work closely match the surroundings and specific situations. Many of his works are in private collections, but ‘The Canal Diggers’ remain a lasting tribute to Erica's rich history.

Photo: ©Hans Boer via DIEP Emmen