Achterhoek resident Suzanne Reusink, co-owner of Boerderij ’t Westendorp in Aalten, was introduced to the Silo Art Trail while travelling through Australia. This art form transforms unattractive agricultural buildings and elements into authentic artworks using street art. Not only are the painted grain silos stunning to see, they also fulfil a function: they tell the story of the region. This development gave Suzanne an idea: “We can do this in the Achterhoek too!”
Encouraged by Stichting Pak An, Achterhoek Toerisme and Cultuur Oost developed her initiative into a plan to produce Silo Art throughout the whole of the Achterhoek. With success! The first artworks are in the initiator’s farmyard. In the coming period of time, the following nine artworks will be produced.
With the Silo Art Tour we want to make an impact and show that the Achterhoek is innovative, enterprising and creative! To increase the visibility and attractiveness of the Achterhoek and strengthen the identity and pride of this region. We share the stories of our region by bringing to life large objects in the landscape that have a link with the agricultural sector. Buildings that are usually considered 'ugly' are transformed into true works of art! Farming then and now is the connecting theme. Subjects that recur in the artworks are nature and landscape, agro and food, “naoberschap”, crafts and traditions and the intentions of a sustainable and circular Achterhoek.
