Fairytale Sculptures
On the Boulevard of Scheveningen, a large outdoor terrace was created in 2004 on the initiative of Theo and Lida Scholten, featuring twenty-three Fairytale Sculptures by Tom Otterness (1952). The sculptures are inspired by famous fairy tales and folk stories that have been told for generations. You might recognize Pinocchio, Hansel and Gretel, or The Steadfast Tin Soldier. You can visit the Fairytale Sculptures freely, and through the free Bloomberg Connects app you can discover the stories behind the artworks.
The Fairytale Sculptures by the Sea were commissioned by Theo and Lida Scholten, the founders of Museum Beelden aan Zee. It was their wish to display sculpture not only within the museum walls, but also to make it freely accessible to everyone walking along the Scheveningen Boulevard. In 2004, this sculpture garden was completed as part of the museum collection; a work of art in public space, for young and old alike.
During a visit to New York, the Scholtens became acquainted with the work of American artist Tom Otterness (b. 1952). His sculptures in Battery Park inspired them with their playful appearance and strong presence in public space. Otterness works figuratively, with rounded, seemingly simple forms reminiscent of illustrations from a picture book.
This accessibility is a conscious choice. Just like in classic fairy tales, there is a layered story behind the recognisable characters. After all, fairy tales are not only about fantasy, but also about courage, perseverance, and resourcefulness. About making mistakes and fixing them. About contrasts, such as big and small, strong and vulnerable, rich and poor. Sometimes difficult or exciting things happen, but that is precisely where their meaning lies. They demonstrate that obstacles must and can be overcome. Growth often arises from overcoming adversity.
Imagination and reflection
Such universal themes also play a role in Fairytale Sculptures by the Sea. The artist does not depict literal illustrations of a single specific story, but creates a coherent whole in which fairy tales, myths, legends, and the symbolism of the sea and water come together. Water has always been a powerful motif in stories: it represents change, danger, purification, and a new beginning. In this symbolic setting on the terraces of the Boulevard, the figures move through a stylised dune and beach landscape.
A casual glance reveals playful bronze figures. Those who linger longer discover nuance and meaning. The sculptures invite imagination and reflection without becoming heavy. They offer space to look and talk together: what is happening here, who is helping whom, and how might it continue? Here, monumental art is not placed on a lofty pedestal but given a place among the people, where it changes with the light and the seasons, on a warm summer evening or during a quiet winter morning.
Free audio tour
Through the free Bloomberg Connects app, you can take a tour along all the Fairytale Sculptures. Scan the codes by the artworks and be surprised by the stories behind the sculptures!
Fairytale Sculptures by the Sea is a work of art for everyone and, at the same time, an invitation to look further into Museum Beelden aan Zee, the museum for modern and contemporary sculpture, which is just a crosswalk away.