Reflecting on 'Stille Strijd' at Museum van de Geest in Haarlem
Museum van de Geest in Haarlem recently hosted the impactful art installation 'Stille Strijd' (Silent Struggle) by artist Saskia Stolz. This significant sculpture, a large-scale depiction of a hunched teenager in a yellow hoodie, aimed to raise awareness about the silent battles many young people face regarding their mental health, particularly depression and suicidal thoughts. Following its launch on Museumplein in Amsterdam, the artwork was displayed prominently on the accessible terrace of Museum van de Geest in Haarlem from July 27 to August 21, 2023. This initiative was a collaborative effort between the museum and the Municipality of Haarlem.
Addressing Youth Mental Health in Haarlem
The installation in Haarlem highlighted urgent local statistics concerning youth mental health. Data from the Municipality of Haarlem's Health Monitor indicated that 31% of young adults in the city had seriously considered suicide in the 12 months prior to the artwork's display, with 7% reporting frequent thoughts. These figures, consistent with national trends, underscore the critical need for open dialogue and support, especially among adolescents aged 16 and 17. The presence of 'Stille Strijd' at Museum van de Geest served as a powerful visual prompt to address these pressing issues.
Jessica Belles, deputy director of Museum van de Geest, emphasized the role of art in breaking the taboo around suicide and fostering conversation. She expressed hope that the artwork's tour would encourage young people to discuss their feelings and combat isolation.
The Message Behind 'Stille Strijd'
Saskia Stolz, founder of the Power of Art House, created 'Stille Strijd' to bring attention to alarming mental health statistics. She noted that while depression often makes young people feel small internally, the sculpture was intentionally made large to contradict this feeling and demand attention. The bright colors used in the artwork symbolize that mental struggles are often invisible from the outside. A prominent '1' on the back of the hoodie refers to suicide being the leading cause of death among young people, a stark reality that Stolz and Museum van de Geest aim to challenge through art. Further details about the project can be found on its dedicated website: www.stillestrijd.com.
Museum van de Geest's Ongoing Commitment to Mental Well-being
Museum van de Geest is dedicated to fostering discussions around mental health through art and culture, with a particular focus on young individuals. The museum employs various interactive educational programs, such as the digital 'Bovenkamer,' the 'Creature' culture intervention, and the 'Boekendubbelganger' reading program, all designed to promote feelings of connection, resilience, and purpose. The museum has also partnered with GGD Kennemerland on innovative art education initiatives like 'Word Up.' Families with children aged 8 and up can explore mental health topics accessibly at the Haarlem location, using a multimedia tour to understand the "artwork between the ears" and complete their own 'User Manual' for self-discovery.
Museum van de Geest has received international recognition for its innovative approach, being named European Museum of the Year in 2022. The institution uses imagination to support the mental well-being of young people through a diverse range of projects, programs, and partnerships, both within and beyond its physical locations in Haarlem and Amsterdam. More information about the museum's mission and programs is available on its website: www.museumvandegeest.nl.
If you are concerned about someone in your environment, or if suicidal thoughts cross your mind, do not hesitate to seek help. You can call 0800-0113 24/7, anonymously and free of charge, or start a chat via 113.nl. There is always someone available to listen.
To discover more about cultural spots focusing on well-being and community, explore Musemap (musemap.art) for inspiring locations. You can also browse museums in various cities or use the map view to find places of interest near you.
