Driftwood & Paraffin (2022)

Framed photograph 40x60cm in handmade woode frame

In February 2022, during a period of heavy storms, I stayed in the Cocondo bunker for two weeks. The storms had washed up a variety of materials onto the beach, which sparked my interest in 'beachcombing.' I focused on two materials that often come from ships: driftwood and paraffin. After experimenting with both, I decided to work with the driftwood for an installation in the bunker art collection.

I photographed the finished installation and framed the photograph myself in multiplex. It is now displayed in the bunker for all our guests to see, marking the first artwork in what will be a growing collection added to every year with each new residency.

About the Paraffin
Paraffin, a byproduct of oil used to make candles, is typically shipped in liquid form. However, during the cleaning of storage containers, it often spills into the water. This substance is extremely toxic to marine life, as animals can mistake the small paraffin particles for food. The Netherlands, one of the largest exporters and importers of paraffin globally, faces significant challenges as a result. Cleaning beaches contaminated with paraffin costs an estimated 148,000 euros every year.

Through this project, I became more acutely aware of the man-made materials that enter the sea daily, often unnoticed. The work deepened my understanding of the environmental impact of substances like paraffin.

The Cocondo Artist in Residence program is made possible by the Erfgoedlijn Atlantikwall of the Provincie Zuid-Holland.