Shadeshifting – studio Spés & De vrolijkheid

Shadeshifting is an abstract drawing of light, shadow, and color, a representation of the shadow play of an ever-changing city. This installation reflects the rapid transformation of the station area; towers filling the void, reshaping the horizon, and the shadows that fall over Utrecht.

This unique creation came about through collaboration with the Stichting de Vrolijkheid. In the context of various workshops, young people from the asylum seekers’ center in Utrecht have expressed their vision of the city.

Their photography, abstract drawings, and play with light have been interwoven by Studio SPÉS into 25 panels. The shadows and reflections of Shadeshifting bring a line drawing of the cityscapes to life, as if you are looking at a 2D city landscape.

With Smakkelaarsveld as the stage, which itself is in the midst of a major metamorphosis, Shadeshifting contributes to the story of change. Amidst the noise of bus lanes and bike paths, this field will transform, with new structures emerging that imprint their mark on the skyline.

Shadeshifting is not just a visual spectacle, but also a symbolic contribution to the ongoing dynamics of the Smakkelaarsveld. A construction sign where otherwise contractors and architects announce their work forms the basis of the artwork. The construction fences around it reveal more about the creative process.

“Every city has its unique ‘fingerprint’ formed by streets, squares, and characteristic architecture in residential areas, shopping centers, and work areas. As the urban environment grows rapidly, the ‘fingerprint’ of the city also changes.“