HKU alumnus Lucas Mergler creates artwork to commemorate infamous tunnel

06 februari 2025

The ‘junkie tunnel’ used to be an infamous and grim spot in Utrecht. To commemorate its dark history, HKU artist Lucas Mergler (graduated at Fine Art in 2022), installed his artwork this 5 February, called Het Vergeten Bestaan (’The Forgotten Existence’).

It’s been 25 years since the tunnel below shopping centre Hoog Catharijne was closed and Utrecht introduced a new policy to deal with addicted homeless people. Councillor Rachel Streefland: ‘It is good to reflect on how the situation was back then, while also remaining vigilant on today’s circumstances. Because we can still see worrisome developments, such as strain on shelter homes and increased homelessness on the streets.

Forgotten existence

The artwork that is now put up on the Smakkelaarskade street depicts a vulnerable human form in a sleeping position. Lying on the ground, hoping to find some comfort and a safe spot in the fiendish tunnel. On the exterior, the artwork shows imprints of cardboard, old newspapers and pieces of canvas: items that can provide some warmth and shelter when living on the streets. Creator Luca Mergler explains: ‘I hope that it will become a practical object. For example, that people will sit on it, and thus making it part of the environment.’

Cooperation

After several interest groups suggested the idea for a work of art, this desire was embraced by the city. For its creation, the local government collaborated with several groups who offer help to the homeless and with (former) HKU students. Lucas: ‘I was happy when HKU approached their alumni to sketch a design for this monument. The guidance by my former lecturer Anno Dijkstra helped me a lot in the preparation and realisation of the design.’

For more information, see the Dutch website www.utrecht.nl/kunstwerktunnel