When developing “Crossings”, a large-scale diptych for the main hall of Stadtsparkasse Bocholt new headquarters in Bocholt, Germany, Claudy Jongstra drew inspiration from the metaphor of “weaving a social fabric.” Initiating collaborations with a network of local farmers to grow natural dye plants—weld (Reseda luteola), calendula (Calendula officinalis) and dyer’s chamomile (Cota tinctoria)—that form the basis of the artwork’s colour palette, Jongstra also sourced wool from a local herd of Merino sheep.
In this way, the making processes of “Crossings” actively engaged the community and local landscape. Now open to the public, the artworks will continue to cultivate connection amongst the people who enter the space of the main hall.
