Wind Works

Wind Works

Terschelling | 2016-2018

Windwerk was a sequel to Pannenland 2013 that went a step further. Dune formation was not only observable but actively encouraged. Wind was the main force that fashioned the landscape, which was inspired by M.C. Escher’s metamorphosis drawings. Hundreds of blocks of marram grass were planted by 250 students and volunteers to create a new landscape composed of these small dunes. As the grass grows so do the dunes until the sea takes it all away and the process begins anew. Over time, the marram grass landscape underwent a metamorphosis. The sharp, geometric patterns of the man-made landscape were transformed into the rounder forms of a natural looking dune landscape. Human activity and nature merged into one, and the effects of the elements united both research and art. While playing and experimenting, new insights arose into dynamic coastal management and dune formation. The transformation process was monitored by the University of Wageningen.