Imagine strolling along the scenic promenade of Middelkerke, a charming seaside town in Flanders, Belgium. As you walk, you are greeted by a delightful series of bronze statues that bring to life some of the most beloved characters from Belgian comic books. This is the enchanting world of the Stripstandbeelden Middelkerke, a unique outdoor gallery that has been captivating visitors since 1997.
The Stripstandbeelden Middelkerke, or Comic Book Statues of Middelkerke, is a collection of seventeen bronze statues that celebrate the rich tradition of Belgian comic art. These statues were installed over a span of sixteen years, from 1997 to 2013, in conjunction with the annual Middelkerke Comic Festival (Stripfestival Middelkerke). Each year, a new statue was unveiled, adding to the growing parade of iconic characters along the seaside promenade.
Belgium is renowned for its comic book culture, and the statues in Middelkerke pay homage to both French-speaking and Dutch-speaking Belgian comics. From the mischievous antics of Spirou to the whimsical adventures of Marsupilami, these statues offer a nostalgic journey through the pages of beloved comic books.
The creation of these statues was a collaborative effort involving several talented sculptors. Monique Mol, a prolific artist, crafted eight of the statues, bringing her unique touch to the characters. Josyane Vanhoutte contributed four statues, while Luc Madou sculpted two. Luc Cauwenberghs, Jan Maillard, and Valeer Peirsman each added their artistic flair with one statue apiece. Together, these artists have transformed the promenade into a whimsical gallery that delights visitors of all ages.
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The statues are strategically placed along a two-kilometer stretch of the Zeedijk promenade, parallel to the North Sea coastline. Most of the statues are positioned at the ends of streets that intersect with the promenade, creating an inviting path for visitors to follow. The distance between each statue ranges from 100 to 200 meters, allowing for a leisurely and enjoyable exploration.
The first two statues, unveiled in 1997, are located near the Epernayplein, a square named after Middelkerke's twin town, Épernay. These statues stand on either side of the square, welcoming visitors as they begin their journey. The subsequent statues are arranged chronologically along the promenade, with each new addition marking another chapter in the festival's history.
The statues themselves are crafted from bronze and mounted on stone pedestals. Each pedestal bears the name of the character it represents, with the names inscribed in Dutch, reflecting the region's language. This adds an educational element to the experience, allowing visitors to learn the Dutch names of these famous comic book characters.
One of the most popular statues is that of Marsupilami, a quirky and endearing creature known for its long, prehensile tail. This statue captures Marsupilami in a playful pose, ready to spring into action. Another beloved character is Spirou, known as Robbedoes in Dutch, who stands proudly on his pedestal, embodying the spirit of adventure and curiosity.
The Stripstandbeelden Middelkerke is just one of the many ways the town celebrates its love for comic books. In addition to the statues, the promenade features several comic-themed murals, adding vibrant splashes of color to the seaside landscape. Visitors can also find a statue of Tante Sidonie, a character from the popular comic series Bob and Bobette, sitting on a public bench. This interactive statue invites visitors to take a seat and snap a photo with the charming Aunt Sidonie.
For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of Belgian comics, a visit to the annual Middelkerke Comic Festival is a must. Held every summer since 1987, this festival brings together comic book artists, fans, and collectors for a weekend of exhibitions, signings, and celebrations. It's a fantastic opportunity to meet the creators behind the characters and immerse oneself in the vibrant comic book culture.
The Stripstandbeelden Middelkerke offers a unique and delightful experience for visitors to Middelkerke. Whether you're a lifelong comic book fan or simply looking for a charming seaside stroll, the statues provide a whimsical and engaging journey through the world of Belgian comics. As you walk along the promenade, with the sea breeze in your hair and the sound of waves crashing nearby, you'll find yourself transported into the imaginative and colorful world of these beloved characters.
So, the next time you find yourself in Belgium, be sure to visit Middelkerke and take a leisurely stroll along the Zeedijk promenade. Let the Stripstandbeelden Middelkerke guide you through a magical world where comic book characters come to life, and where every step brings a new adventure.
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