Von Hardens Geist (Hardens Spirit), 2007

Folkert de Jong's "Von Hardens Geist (Hardends' Spirit)," created in 2007, emerges as a haunting yet compelling exploration of historical trauma and collective memory. In this artwork, de Jong employs his signature medium of polyurethane foam to sculpt a macabre tableau that delves into the dark recesses of human consciousness. The central figure, reminiscent of a spectral apparition, embodies the spectral remnants of a bygone era, evoking the lingering specter of violence, oppression, and tyranny. Surrounding the figure are otherworldly creatures and grotesque forms, symbolizing the distorted realities and psychological scars left in the wake of historical atrocities.

Through "Von Hardens Geist (Hardends' Spirit)," de Jong confronts viewers with the unsettling legacy of colonialism, imperialism, and militarism, urging them to reckon with the unresolved traumas of the past. The use of polyurethane foam as a medium adds an eerie, otherworldly quality to the sculpture, as if the figures have been frozen in time, suspended between the realms of the living and the dead. By engaging with themes of power, violence, and memory, de Jong's artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of history on contemporary society, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and contemplate the complexities of human nature.