De Schreeuw
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De Schreeuw (the Cry) is an artwork that remembers the murderded Dutch filmmaker/regisseur Theo van Gogh.
Theo van Gogh was murdered on 2 November 2004 in the Linnaeusstraat in Amsterdam, just a few steps away from the Oosterpark. The murderer was a muslim-extremist.
The Cry, translation of "de Schreeuw", is "a powerful symbol of the freedom of speech", an official of the Amsterdam administration Martin Verbeet said. The artwork is located at the edge of the Oosterpark, so it can be seen by many people; ‘Theo literally cries to the people through this artwork.’
The artwork, made by artist Jeroen Henneman, symbolizes freedom of speech, and how Theo Van Gogh was made speechless. One side of the 4.5 meter high and stainless steel sculpture shows a profile of Theo van Gogh, crying with mouth wide open. The other side shows him with his mouth closed.
It was revealed in the Oosterpark in Amsterdam on Sunday, March 18th 2007. Accompanied by friends, relatives and others, the mayor of Amsterdam Job Cohen spoke some words of remembrance at the site.
During the revelation there were songs (chansons) written by Van Gogh. Cabaretier Hans Teeuwen, a good friend of the cineast, concluded the gathering with a (protest-)song for the free word and freedom of speech.
The artist who made the monument hopes that it makes the people remember the moment of the murder. 'For Theo van Gogh, who cries for mercy.' Henneman is not afraid the monument will be damaged, and is confident the city of Amsterdam will take good care of it.
source: ANP Amsterdam
