Atelier Van Lieshout

Brutalism as an architectural style had long been ignored because it was perceived as bulky, bare and almost indecent. But after years of postmodernist frills and bloodless corporate office building, appreciation for straightforward brutalism is on the rise again. Finally, according to Joep van Lieshout, who had never stopped joyfully working with these rough and ready visual forms.

The Brutalistische Aap [Brutalist Monkey] from Atelier Van Lieshout is the suitable mascot for such stylistic durability. Its rough forms are similar to the unfinished concrete of Brutalism, but gently hint at the curves of Art Deco. Strength and zest for life go hand in hand. The geometric shapes that sit on the monkey’s body like architectural bulges emphasize the utilitarian rationality that ultimately drives him.

The brutalist style of the sculpture took its inspiration from the former student centre, the Bunker, which was designed by Huig Maaskant in the 1960’s. Now Powerhouse Company designed a residential tower on top of this infamous bunker.

Photo made by Nadia ten Wolde