This wilgenpoort (willow gate) is a portal between life and death. It is the first physical work by the Vereniging voor Voorouder Verering (VVV - Association for Ancestor Veneration), a term popularised by Theo Kley (1936-2022) who recently departed for the next portal himself. The VVV bridges the gap between life and death. It links the ancestors (founders and elders) with Ruigoord’s present.

You enter a clearing through the giant woven Moongate, inviting contemplation. A secluded, bordered place, as often experienced in a cemetery.

A triquetra (a Celtic sign of life) is engraved on lava rocks surrounded by names of illustrious Ruigoorders who are no longer on this earth. The triquetra is a symbol with three interlocking circles that dates back 5,000 years. It symbolises life, death and rebirth, as well as the three forces of nature: land, air and sea.

The lives of the illustrious Ruigoorders, are contained in a digital archive. A QR code takes you to the website with videos, biographies and photos of the deceased. A growing archive of Ruigoorders in the here beyond.

Wilgenpoort in collaboration with Buwin Griek. Stone triquetra in collaboration with Martijn Steinz

The Moongate was created by Anita AC Janssen, an artist with a background as a documentary filmmaker and photographer. Besides her work for the film industry, Janssen creates visuals for theatre performances and has also taken to the stage as a percussionist and background vocalist. Together with Tosca Niterink, she has produced theatre and reported on their many travels in the NRC. They also worked on Vara's HumorTV, Het Parool and the Varagids together.