Broken Jug

A masterpiece by a world-famous artist. Frank Stella’s remarkable and gigantic work of art ‘Broken Jug’ can be found along the Frisian Wadden coast. On the Harlingerstraatweg in Harlingen, the famous work stands at the head of the long-term parking lots. The impressive shapes of Broken Jug cannot be missed. “With the placement of the Broken Jug, Harlingen, Northwest Friesland and the province of Friesland have a new landmark”, according to the proud Municipality of Harlingen.

Unique lighting

Even after sunset, Broken Jug stands out in the streetscape of the port city. Atelier Lek (Rotterdam) provided a unique lighting design which is based on the tide. The influence of ebb and flow is visualized on the work of art. It provides a magnificent spectacle.

Broken Jug is one of the many works by the famous American artist Frank Stella, known for his minimalist paintings and three-dimensional works. In 2009, Stella received the National Medal of Arts from then-president Barack Obama. In 2019, the artist was a big supporter of the idea to place his work in Harlingen. “It is so well-situated at the edge of the sea”, Stella declared during the opening two years later. The fact that the famous artwork was actually placed in Harlingen is thanks to Joop Mulder, former mayor Roel Sluiter and former alderman Hein Kuiken of Harlingen. “Joop took the Broken Jug plans with him to every meeting”, Sluiter told Omrop Fryslân. After a long wait, Broken Jug has finally been given a well-deserved place.

Joop’s dream has come true.

Photos: Atelier LEK and Edwin Kooren

Locatie: Zuidwalweg 26 8861 NV Harlingen.