The first day of the Efteling exhibition in Den Bosch was sold out. From Pieckpictures to Spookslot relics: hundreds of Efteling objects can be seen in the Noordbrabants Museum. “It’s magical and grand,” says visitor Walter Scheerhoorn.
After seventy years, Efteling is almost a museum piece in itself. Never before has there been an Efteling exhibition in a museum outside the park. “We come especially from Drenthe. The emotion hits you deep in your heart,” says 54-year-old Scheerhoorn. “Grand and captivating.”
The 16-year-old Eli van Loon was also eager to come and have a look on this first day of the exhibition. “It’s so much fun! I really look around with enthusiasm. There are so many things here that you can’t see in the park.”
Anton Peak
The collection is large: from original drawings by Anton Pieck and the first mirror of Snow White from the 1960s to recently removed pieces from the demolished Spookslot. The museum also shows things that non-Efteling eyes would otherwise never see. Such as a model of De Sprookjesboom, which was placed in the Fairytale Forest years later.
Yet it is not only the fairy tales that pass by. The exhibition also takes a look at the relationship of the magical Efteling with the reality of the world around it. Think of discussions about Monsieur Cannibale removed last year. Or the difficult expansion plans and the frustrations of local residents.
Mushrooms
Almost every Efteling visitor has been photographed with the musical mushroom at least once. The museum called on visitors to send in photos. Hundreds of people have sent in their photos, which can now be seen on a large gallery wall.
“The Efteling is a phenomenon. You go there as a child, parent and grandparent. The exhibition responds to those nostalgic feelings, but in addition to nostalgia, it also has a historical approach. The exhibition is a feast of recognition,” said Joris Westerink, curator at Het Noordbrabants Museum earlier.
The exhibition can be seen until May 21.
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