R.I.P.

In Almere, a special tribute stands in honor of youth worker René Kempenaar, who suddenly passed away in 2007 while on the job. Shortly after, local young people expressed a desire for a place to gather and practice breakdancing. In collaboration with Museum De Paviljoens and the Kempenaar family, the City of Almere fulfilled that wish.

Artist Arno Coenen designed the monument R.I.P., an octagonal mosaic floor spanning 30 square meters at Weerwaterplein. The design was inspired by the Asian martial art Pencak Silat, which Kempenaar was passionate about, and also echoes the typography of a well-known boxing brand. The visual language is contemporary and resonates strongly with the world of young people.

Mothership developed the concept. The monument was realized in 2011 and produced by Mothership, with special thanks to the Kempenaar family and the youth of Almere, who helped lay the mosaic.