Hangman's Ball (video installation)
2012
Until the late 18th century the former Volewijck gallows field in Amsterdam
(the current location of the 'Overhoeks' tower), was a hotspot
for families looking for some Sunday afternoon entertainment.
They would cross the IJ waterway by boat, have a look at the bodies on display,
followed by a nice picnic at the (then newly built) Tolhuistuin.
Colourful and festive ‘noose streamers’ and a person skipping rope with
a double-noosed rope refer to the ambiguous function this area
used to have. It also reminds us of the things in life that always go hand in hand:
life and death, misery and joy, sorrow and pleasure.
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