Paul Mercken

In the sculpture garden De Pruimengaard (The Plum Orchard) in Wijk bij Duurstede, The Netherlands, 12 to 15 contemporary artists exhibit in total about 150 objects. De Pruimengaard shows each year work of different artists, so that there are always new sculptures to be seen. The offer is quite varied: next to solid bronze, statues of steel or stone, there is also ceramic work and colorful glasswork toe be admired. Also in stylistic forms and formats De Pruimengaard offers much variation, there is a choice for everyone: from monumental sculptures to small objects in showcases.

The sculptures are placed among the plum trees, next to splendid ponds, in the berry orchard and in the flowering borders. Because as it were real little yards are formed between the trees, each artist has his own proper place, so that his work is done justice en the visitor is constantly surprised by the intimacy and proper atmosphere that it radiates.

The variety offered, the welcoming reception, the pleasant atmosphere and the approachability attract each year more visitors from home and abroad. The situation of the sculpture garden at the border of historic Wijk bij Duurstede with its beautiful center, many galleries and first class restaurants make the visit extra attractive. I chose for one of a pair of Lady Ladies, but found it more suitable to keep them apart, although buying only one would cost a bit more. As I found a birdbath elsewhere in the garden with three supporting frogs but in a naturalistic style, I got that too and lo and behold, it was by the same artist, so that I got the rebate after all. The first sculpture found for the time being a place in front of my apartment in the senior complex DE GRONDSLAG (The Foundation) in Bunnik, and will by testament go to my eldest daughter Christina in Amsterdam. The birdbath stands in front of the window of her mother in the care home Wardington House near Banbury, GB, and will go to our daughter Jessica, who for the moment lives in Oxford (Cowley), GB.