In 2021, during the curfew riots and the corona pandemic, many shops and restaurants in 's-Hertogenbosch were preventively boarded up. From this unexpected emptiness arose the initiative USINGWALLSTOBUILDBRIDGES. The owner of Pompen & Verlouw posted a call on Instagram to paint his wooden panels, after which Frank Willems immediately got in touch. Together with Jan-Henk van Ieperen and Fleur Blom, he mobilized a group of artists within 24 hours and received permission from the municipality to take to the streets. During a weekend, these artists gave the closed shop windows a new creative meaning, transforming the panels into vibrant artworks radiating hope, connection, and resilience. Photographer Ben Nienhuis documented the entire process, resulting in this book capturing a unique moment in the city’s history.

#StreetArt #CoronaCreativity #USINGWALLSTOBUILDBRIDGES #sHertogenbosch #ArtAndConnection

USING WALLS TO BUILD BRIDGES the BOOK

In 2021, during the curfew riots and the corona pandemic, many shops and restaurants in ‘s-Hertogenbosch were preventively boarded up. From this unexpected emptiness arose the initiative USINGWALLSTOBUILDBRIDGES. The owner of Pompen & Verlouw posted a call on Instagram to paint his wooden panels, after which Frank Willems immediately got in touch. Together with Jan-Henk van Ieperen and Fleur Blom, he mobilized a group of artists within 24 hours and received permission from the municipality to take to the streets. During a weekend, these artists gave the closed shop windows a new creative meaning, transforming the panels into vibrant artworks radiating hope, connection, and resilience. Photographer Ben Nienhuis documented the entire process, resulting in this book capturing a unique moment in the city’s history.

#StreetArt #CoronaCreativity #USINGWALLSTOBUILDBRIDGES #sHertogenbosch #ArtAndConnection

COLLECTOR & GALLERY NOTES

"I was looking for new art online when I came across Frank’s work, and knew then and there I was going to buy an original piece, but ended up purchasing two, which look amazing on the wall."

"My husband and I have been fans of Frank's art for many years – it's funny, colorful, and always different. By now, we are proud owners of several of his original works, and I keep discovering new pieces that speak to me. The communication with Frank is always fun and easy with every purchase! I will definitely continue to expand our collection in the future and am already looking forward to everything that’s yet to come…"

"Frank's portfolio is a strong collection of works that demonstrate a unique artistic vision and a high level of technical skill. The works are visually engaging, emotionally resonant, and conceptually thought-provoking. The artist's ability to combine these elements effectively makes their portfolio a standout."

"Frank Willems was an absolute pleasure to work with! He was consistently prompt in his responses to us and very proactive throughout the entire order process. His artworks were a perfect fit for our client’s space and we (along with our client) were extremely pleased with how everything came together. We truly appreciate his professionalism and the ease of communication!"

"Just wanted to drop you a short THANK YOU note! All artworks arrived in perfect condition and are definitely a fantastic visual upgrade for our office. Your words even prompt some of our clients for philosophical remarks...that's exactly what we wanted!! Keep up the good work "

"When coming across Frank‘s oeuvre it immediately spoke to me. I enjoy the juxtaposition of what at first glance could be mistaken for kids’ doodles, but actually carries a deeper quality that encourages continuous reflection of core concepts of life."

"I stumbled about the artwork from Frank Willems by coincidence and was immediately excited by the creative, bold and cool pieces. Frank was super friendly and helpful, the deal was superfast and professional. The work looks in reality even better than on his webpage. Everything top notch. Highly recommended."

"Delightful street art-style artwork that makes you laugh and think. Definitely recommended!"

"We are very happy with your artwork, CRAZY BANANAS. Everyone who enters our place stops for a moment and looks at it. Great work!"

"Frank is an amazing artist with a beautiful vision of the world. He has a big heart. His art contains a good amount of sarcasm that I really enjoy."

"After three years, I’m still absolutely delighted and far from tired of my series of three art prints."