C ATHEDR AL OF THORNS
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TURNING THE MOST DIFFICULT PIECE OF CURAÇAO VEGETATION INTO GOLD
CATHEDRAL OF THORNS BY HERMAN VAN BERGEN
The Cathedral of Thorns, situated in the garden of Landhuis Bloemhof, is a breathtaking piece of art that captures not only the local hearts, but also gains recognition in international media, already mentioned by the National Geographic as a must see. WRITER: DESI DIJKHUIZEN
This stunning immense artwork, created by artist Herman van Bergen, reveals a deeper meaning and tells a story to its visitors to reflect on lessons from the past: “the ecological and humanitarian disaster caused by the exploration of the New World.” Constructed completely from thorns of the local wabi plant as a tribute to the history and people of Curaçao, it appears the thorns change to gold when lit from within.
CURAÇAO BUSINESS | EDITION 1 | 2020
It is a building-sized illuminated labyrinth where visitors walk through its corridors to experience an artistic journey through a difficult history; the 18th century arrival of colonialists and the exploitation of slaves. The labyrinth design becomes a symbol for spirituality and a path to enlightenment. The realization of the Cathedral of Thorns was made possible from impressive community work, passion for art,
love for Curaçao and high dose of creativity. As its growing popularity attracts visitors from all over the world, overtime could the Cathedral of Thorns become a symbol of Curaçao? An interview with Herman van Bergen, the force behind this artwork became quite a deep conversation about Curaçao’s history, an eye-opener about humanity and recognition
