The artwork Waterlanders by artist Gabriel Lester was officially opened by mayor Maarten Poorter. This integrated artwork marks an important step in strengthening cohesion within the municipality of Dijk en Waard. The opening brought together residents, partners, and visitors to celebrate this special occasion.
Waterlanders represents the shared history of the region, in which water has always played a central role. The water droplet symbolises movement, change, and connection, and serves as the recurring element throughout the design.
The walls are clad with thousands of ceramic tiles embedded with glass droplets. Variations in shape and placement create a vibrant pattern that constantly changes under the influence of light. During the day, the artwork appears calm and organic, while in the evening it transforms into a dynamic light experience, with the droplets illuminating and responding to passing traffic.
Although the artwork is part of the new connection along the Zuidtangent, the strength of Waterlanders lies in the way it brings together infrastructure and experience. What once formed a division between Langedijk and Heerhugowaard is now bridged not only physically, but also visually and symbolically.
With Waterlanders, Dijk en Waard has gained not just a functional connection, but above all a powerful artwork that makes the relationship between landscape, history, and future visible.