Anna Reutinger's 'I will pick up the cat poop in the yard' explores 'noaberschap' in a Groningen village church
In May 2025, the Terug naar het Begin festival showcased artist Anna Reutinger's installation titled 'I will pick up the cat poop in the yard' at Mariakerk in Oosterwijtwerd, Groningen, Netherlands. This artwork incorporates silk ribbons adorned with promises from both villagers and festival attendees, embodying the concept of 'noaberschap'—a spirit of neighborliness. Reutinger, an American artist residing in Brussels, was commissioned by 'het resort' and the festival. The Mariakerk, a community landmark established in the late 12th century, is a deconsecrated church. Visitors contributed promises on naturally dyed ribbons, which were displayed within the church. Reutinger envisions these promises as symbols of shared care. Additionally, she created 'Hats for Communal Celebration' at M HKA, Antwerp, in 2025.
Key facts
- Anna Reutinger's installation 'I will pick up the cat poop in the yard' was shown at the Mariakerk in Oosterwijtwerd during Festival Terug naar het Begin.
- The work features silk ribbons with everyday promises from villagers and festival visitors.
- The concept is based on 'noaberschap', a regional term for good neighborliness.
- The Mariakerk is one of the oldest Romanesque churches in Groningen, with parts dating from the late 12th century.
- The local art commission, including Jaap de Koning, selected Reutinger for her use of natural materials and craft techniques.
- Reutinger incorporated hats to represent non-elite historical churchgoers, contrasting with the Ripperda family memorials.
- Visitors could add promises on ribbons using a transparent liquid that became visible after natural dyeing.
- The work is temporary, but the artist hopes the promises remain as a reminder of community care.
Entities
Artists
- Anna Reutinger
- Robert Filliou
Institutions
- Mariakerk
- het resort
- Terug naar het Begin
- M HKA
- Kunstcommissie Oosterwijtwerd
- Mondriaan Fonds
- Mister Motley
Locations
- Oosterwijtwerd
- Groningen
- Netherlands
- Brussel
- Antwerpen
- Bazel
- Eemsdelta
- Leuven