The sculpture commemorates the late Gebhard van Wieren, the longtime president of the Uelsen Tourism and Beautification Association (VVV). To keep his legacy alive, the sculpture was funded by donations collected after his death, in accordance with his wishes.
Patrick Schievink carried out the project for the VVV: He approached the task with great sensitivity and created a truly one-of-a-kind structure on the historic Mühlenberg. At the heart of the structure are imposing, 350-year-old oak beams from the municipality, which give the frame a rustic and historic foundation. The curved, light-colored wooden slats of the seating area subtly echo the shape of a mill’s sail, creating a harmonious contrast to the mill’s old wood and providing a gentle transition to the existing photo spot. “It was a labor of love for me to create something lasting for Gebhard and Uelsen,” said Patrick Schievink during the handover of the bench to the VVV and the municipality of Uelsen, which supported the project.
The location on the Mühlenberg was chosen deliberately, according to Lars Elferink of the VVV. Anyone who hangs onto the chains and lets their gaze wander over Uelsen will now find the perfect spot to pause and recharge. It offers a direct view of the town center—the place where he lived and worked—as well as Gebhard’s grave in the nearby cemetery.
The swing bench is now open to all passersby and visitors—a new favorite spot with history and character.
Photo: From left to right: Lars Elferink, Patrick Schievink, Ulla Wigger, Tomke Heinemann