Dier In Den Vreemde, which translates to “Animal in a strange land” in English, is a unique and captivating art project that brings together two seemingly disparate worlds – animals and urban environments. Created by Dutch artist Bart Jansen, Dier In Den Vreemde is a series of sculptures made from taxidermy animals that have been transformed into various modes of transportation.
Jansen’s work first gained international attention in 2012 when he created a buzz with his “Orvillecopter” – a helicopter made from the taxidermy body of a dead cat named Orville. The project sparked controversy and debate, with some viewing it as a form of animal cruelty, while others saw it as a creative and thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between humans and animals.
Since then, Jansen has continued to push the boundaries of traditional taxidermy by creating a menagerie of animal-inspired vehicles, including the “OstrichCopter,” “RatCar,” and “SharkSub.” Each sculpture is meticulously crafted and designed to be both whimsical and thought-provoking, inviting viewers to contemplate the ways in which animals are treated and perceived in our society.
Dier In Den Vreemde challenges our preconceived notions about animals and their place in the world, blurring the lines between nature and technology, life and death. Jansen’s work forces us to confront our own attitudes towards animals and consider the impact of human actions on the natural world.
In addition to his sculptures, Jansen also collaborates with other artists and designers to create interactive installations and performances that further explore the themes of Dier In Den Vreemde. Through his work, Jansen seeks to spark dialogue and reflection on our relationship with the animal kingdom, encouraging us to reconsider our assumptions and attitudes towards our fellow creatures.
Dier In Den Vreemde is a provocative and thought-provoking art project that challenges us to think differently about animals and our interactions with them. By blurring the boundaries between art and taxidermy, Jansen invites us to consider the ways in which we perceive and relate to the animals around us. Love it or hate it, Dier In Den Vreemde is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who encounter it.