Admire the ceramic map of Delft
Interview with artist Nan Deardorff McClain
Where there used to be a boring, grey wall in the Papenstraat, there now stands an indrukwekkend work of art that immediately attracts attention: the ceramic map of Delft. This extraordinary mosaic shows the city as it looked in the 17th century, with a beautiful interplay of small houses, canals and the surrounding landscape.
We spoke to initiator and artist Nan Deardorff McClain, who took us through the creative process and the story behind this unique project. Find out how a fascination with old maps and a simple question from a friend led to this colourful tribute to Delft and its rich ceramic tradition.
What is the ceramic map of Delft
Nan: The ceramic map is a map of Delft from the 17th century, made of mosaic and ceramics. I always had a fascination with old maps, especially those of Dutch cities. They are often beautifully made, with the little houses and bridges, and then alongside them the countryside with the ditches and patches of greenery. I always thought it could be a nice subject for a mosaic artwork. One day, a friend asked "Why don't you make a map of Delft?" And when she said that, I saw it right in front of me. That's how the idea was born.
How did you get started?
Nan: It started with a workshop I organised to make a prototype with some people. There I met ceramist Colja de Roo. We had such a good click, and she was so enthusiastic, that we decided to take up the project together. We then held dozens of workshops at various locations in Delft. Groups of primary school pupils also got to work, making the protruding roofs. This gives the work a 3d effect.
Why did you choose the combination of mosaic and ceramics?
Nan: Mosaic takes a lot of time and can be very tricky. Ceramics is easier and therefore more accessible. Even small children can already make a house or a tree using a cut-out mould. This meant we could give many more people the chance to help make the card. Besides, it also naturally suits Delft as a ceramics city, to make the card with ceramics.
How did you arrive at this location?
Nan: The wall in Papenstraat really asked for it! The wall is of good quality and it is nice and even, but it was a dull shade of grey and it had graffiti sprayed on it. So a good wall to beautify. Besides, it is a nice location because many people walk through this street. Of course, the work has to be viewed.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the fact that we were able to make this in 15 months, thanks to the many help of over 500 volunteers. It has truly become a collective work of art. Colja and I could have done this just the two of us and it would have taken us years. But now it has both gone much faster and it really has become a map for Delft, made by Delft. I really like that.
Looking for the ceramic map?
Did you know: the work also incorporates all sorts of little jokes? For instance, if you look carefully, you can find a little Hugo de Groot with his book chest.
Looking for the ceramic map?
This beautiful ceramic map of Delft hangs on a wall in the Papenstraat, a charming little street in the heart of the city. When you come to admire this special mosaic, it's definitely worth visiting other highlights in the area.
Art lovers can visit art centre 38CC, where you'll find a diverse range of exhibitions, theatre and workshops. Fancy something tasty? Then drop in at city bakery De Diamanten Ring, a historic bakery with artisan breads and pastries, located on a special spot where Balthasar Gerards, famous for assassinating William of Orange, once spent the night.
After all these discoveries, you can settle down for a drink at 't Postkantoor, an atmospheric café with a cosy atmosphere and an excellent selection of drinks. This is how you combine culture, history and relaxation during a visit to Papenstraat.
Discover more art near the ceramics map
If you visit the ceramic map in the Papenstraat, you don't have to look far for more art in public spaces. In the immediate surroundings, you will find surprising street art, such as on the electricity house and on seven painted doors and panels in Halsteeg. Special words can be seen here, designed in self-designed fonts.
Curious? Discover this and more in the street art route through Delft.
Walk the street art route through Delft
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