Dutch Alderman Thom Kraanen recently unveiled a new artwork called "OV-ree" at Amersfoort Central Station, created by MONA partner National Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug in collaboration with the Municipality of Amersfoort. The artwork invites visitors to discover the natural landscape of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug and to reach it sustainably.
A moment among the trees
The OV-ree invites passersby to pause and step into nature, standing among roe deer and trees crafted from recycled steel road plates. Positioned next to the large chestnut tree at Amersfoort Central Station, the artwork creates an immediate visual and conceptual connection to the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. It is a reminder of how close nature really is: from Amersfoort Central Station, visitors can reach the national park on foot, by shared or private bicycle, or by bus.
"It is wonderful that, together with the Municipality of Amersfoort, we are encouraging visitors to explore the Utrechtse Heuvelrug in a sustainable way. The OV-ree does this in a playful and inviting manner."
Jeroen Heemsbergen, Programme Manager, National Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug
Setting off sustainably
On the back of the artwork, a QR code links to a website with practical inspiration for visiting the area sustainably, including walking and cycling routes that are all easily accessible from Amersfoort Central Station. By choosing sustainable transport, visitors contribute directly to preserving this special natural area.
"The roe deer is one of Amersfoort's guide species and is also very common in the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, making it a fitting symbol for an artwork that reminds people how easily the national park can be reached by public transport. I am pleased that, even after the redesign of the station square, the OV-ree and the old chestnut tree will remain as landmarks and a meeting place."
Thom Kraanen, Alderman, Municipality of Amersfoort
The OV-ree was realised through a collaboration between National Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug and the Municipality of Amersfoort, and was designed by Mothership.
