Sonsbeek 2008: Grandeur concludes 100-day exhibition with a total of more than 110,000 visitors.

The organisation of the 10th edition of the international Sonsbeek sculpture exhibition can look back on Sonsbeek 2008 with great satisfaction. Initial figures indicate that an estimated 110,000 to 120,000 people visited the exhibition. Widespread appreciation has been expressed for the exhibition, which lasted 100 days.

A procession in which almost 1,000 residents of Arnhem organised into ‘Guilds’ carried the works of art through the inner city, marked the start of the exhibition. More 30,000 people came to watch the procession. (This figure has not been included in the estimated total number of visitors.)

Sonsbeek 2008 drew to a close amid great public interest with a symposium at which the speakers included renowned scientists, curators and critics. This was followed by a torch-lit procession past the 26 works of art by guild members and musicians.

Artistic director Anna Tilroe: ‘National and international interest and appreciation of Sonsbeek 2008 has surpassed my wildest dreams. The procession generated an enormous amount of attention not only for the exhibition, but also for the theme. Many people recognised ‘Grandeur on a human scale’ as a positive experience. Equally important was the convenience of the information on offer, and above all, the surprising way in which the art blended in with the beautiful Park Sonsbeek. We witnessed people with very little or no experience of art becoming highly enthusiastic, despite the fact that the art made no concessions. We have proved that it is possible, and this inspires me with hope and happiness.’

Chair of the “Stichting Sonsbeek Internationaal” (Sonsbeek International Foundation), Jaap Modder: ‘I am hearing from all sides that the combination of an exciting concept, fantastic artists, dedicated, involved organisers and a daring communication and marketing strategy were the most important pillars of success for Sonsbeek 2008. The directors are proud of this wonderful achievement’.