We are Delft:
A View of Delft made with 110,851 dolls as a tribute to the inhabitants of Delft.
In the heart of Delft, where history meets contemporary creativity, visual artist René Jacobs is launching a unique project that will connect the whole city. "We are Delft" is not just an artwork; it is a tribute to the people of Delft, a celebration of diversity and inclusiveness.
What is "Wij zijn Delft"?
In mid-2025, René Jacobs, inspired by Vermeer's iconic painting "View of Delft", is going to create an indrukwekkend work of art consisting of no less than 110,851 tiny dolls. This number has not been chosen at random; it represents the population of Delft on 15 December 2025. Each figure represents a person from Delft, regardless of age, background or culture. From toddlers to the elderly, from students to the unemployed, everyone is welcome to contribute to this inclusive art project.
The aim is to create a work of art that not only celebrates the beauty of Delft, but also the strength of the community. At a time when polarisation threatens to drive us apart, this project is a powerful symbol of cooperation and togetherness. On the weekend of 13 and 14 December, 350 years after Vermeer's death, the Vermeer Centrum Delft will be open free of charge for everyone to come and see the artwork.
How is the artwork made?
View of Delft, Mauritshuis The Hague
Creating "View of Delft" in the form of 110,851 dolls is a great challenge! Each puppet, measuring about 4 cm, is hand-coloured and placed in a unique way to bring Vermeer's painting to life. The puppets are attached to 12 panels that together measure 210 x 252 cm.
An important aspect of the project is community involvement. Everyone who contributes to the making of the dolls is interviewed, and these stories come together in a documentary that captures the heart of Delft.
Why is this project important?
"We are Delft" is more than just an art project. It reminds us that art connects us, that it is a language that everyone speaks. It provides a platform for dialogue and empathy, and encourages us to work together towards a common goal. By creating together, you get to know your city's fellow residents better.
The making process is captured in a mini-documentary by Uitgesproken Gasten, commissioned by Delft Marketing. The film will be screened alongside the artwork and offers a unique period view.
Everyone from Delft is welcome to join in
Would you also like to be part of this unique art project? Everyone from Delft is welcome to participate, regardless of background or experience. Together, we can create a work of art that celebrates the diversity and togetherness of our city. Keep an eye on our website and social media for more information on how to participate!
The first puppet
On Friday 16 May, Mies Warffemius, the city's oldest resident at 106 years old, stuck the very first puppet onto the artwork.
-
Sticky moments
Almost all dolls have now been pasted except one, which will be pasted on 12 December by a pregnant woman due to give birth around 15 December. Thus, old and new come together in an ultimate way in this work.
-
Meet the artist
Soon we will share an interview with Rene Jacobs here.
-
So many dolls have already been pasted:
Live puppet counter
110,850 dolls
