BNG's office is currently undergoing a major transformation. This change is not just a physical renovation: it also reflects how we present ourselves as an organisation, and work to achieve social impact. We are therefore proud that glass artist Emmy van de Grift will be creating a work of art for our renovated office building.
Van de Grift's work will be displayed in the atrium, the heart of the building, and consists of a series of glass objects that together form a universe. A universe in which humans and nature do not exist separately, but are intertwined. This idea touches on who we are as BNG: a bank that works on the basis of connection, with an eye for society, sustainability and cooperation.
Connection was central to the art commission, both spatially and visually, as well as in terms of content. In addition, the artwork had to resonate with our purpose and ambition, while also entering into dialogue with the architecture of the renovated building. Six artists participated in the art commission. Van de Grift's design was the best fit. It is a play of light, colour and shadow that moves with the day, and thus with the people who are in the building. The work invites reflection and encounter. Van de Grift: 'With my work, I want to create a space where people can marvel for a moment. Where light and glass tell a story about who we are and how we relate to the world around us.'
BNG is delighted to offer Van de Grift, a young and promising talent, this opportunity. ‘Emmy’s work fits in seamlessly with our belief that art contributes to a meaningful working environment. Art touches, connects and makes visible what sometimes remains abstract, such as social impact,’ says Philippine Risch, CEO of BNG. ‘With this commission, BNG is not only contributing to the renovation of our own building, but also to the promotion of culture in the Netherlands. We have been doing this for years, for example through our art collection, which has a permanent place in our office environment. And now also through this new work, which will soon be visible every day to everyone who enters our building. We look forward to bringing this special work of art to life together with Emmy.’
'With my work, I want to create a space where people can marvel for a moment. Where light and glass tell a story about who we are and how we relate to the world around us.'Emmy van de GriftGlass artist
Emmy van de Grift graduated from the HKU in 2021 and has exhibited at Museum de Fundatie, the Sint Joriskerk in Amersfoort, Dutch Design Week and the Social Impact Factory, among others. The Allard Pierson Museum is currently exhibiting Van de Grift's work, which draws inspiration from antiquity.
Van de Grift creates colourful stained glass works inspired by various structures and processes in nature. The way light shines through the glass changes throughout the day, creating a play of colour, light and shadow. This influences not only the work, but also the atmosphere of the entire space.
