Behind the scenes at Art Below Zero: The making of
What goes into creating Europe’s largest ice sculpture exhibition? Art Below Zero is a visual spectacle featuring an impressive 350,000 kilograms of ice, celebrating Amsterdam in all its glory. Behind the mesmerizing sculptures lies a meticulous process, filled with planning, collaboration, and craftsmanship. Join us as we take you behind the scenes of this extraordinary experience.
From concept to ice sculpture: the creative process
The journey begins months before the first piece of ice is shaped. A team of international artists and designers collaborates on sketches and 3D models to bring Amsterdam’s iconic landmarks to life, such as the canals and the Paleis voor Volksvlijt. Renowned figures like Anne Frank and Johnny Jordaan are also featured in the designs. Every detail is carefully planned to create an authentic and awe-inspiring experience.
The perfect ice: quality above all
The foundation of the exhibition is, of course, the ice. For this event, special crystal-clear ice is used, produced under controlled conditions to eliminate air bubbles. This ensures a flawless, glass-like quality that highlights the intricate details of the sculptures. The massive ice blocks are then carefully transported to the Centrale Markthal, where the magic begins.
Craftsmanship in action: chisels and chainsaws
A team of skilled ice carvers from various countries travels to Amsterdam to craft these stunning sculptures. Using a combination of hand tools like chisels and power tools like chainsaws, the carvers transform massive blocks of ice into masterpieces. From historical figures to architectural wonders, creating these scenes demands extraordinary precision and artistic expertise.
Light, color, and cooling: special effects
What truly sets Art Below Zero apart are its special effects. LED lighting and projections give the sculptures a nearly magical glow, enhancing every intricate detail. Additionally, the exhibition is kept at a constant sub-zero temperature, ensuring the sculptures remain in pristine condition throughout the event.
From worksite to winter wonderland
Transforming the Centrale Markthal into a winter wonderland is a logistical feat. While the artists focus on carving, the exhibition’s scenes are meticulously constructed. Snow is used to smooth transitions between sculptures, and strategically placed lighting creates an immersive atmosphere. The result? An unforgettable journey through 750 years of Amsterdam’s history, captured in ice.
A team of experts
From visionary designers to technical specialists, the creation of Art Below Zero is a collaborative effort involving dozens of professionals. Every detail, from the smallest ice edge to the largest sculpture, contributes to an experience that visitors will cherish long after their visit.
Art Below Zero is more than an exhibition; it is a tribute to art, history, and craftsmanship. Come and see how Amsterdam comes spectacularly to life in a frozen masterpiece!
