Ged. Slaak en Oostplein 1940

This photograph by Alie Rondberg-Vrauwdêunt shows a collage of images of Ged. Slaak en Oostplein. Here, we see the visual motif of urban transformation. The progression from a busy street to post-destruction rubble embodies the cyclical nature of creation and destruction. This theme is deeply rooted in human history, reminiscent of ancient ruins and the ephemeral nature of human endeavors. These scenes echo similar images throughout history, from the aftermath of the Peloponnesian War, documented by Thucydides, to modern photojournalism depicting war zones. The ruined cityscape acts as a memento mori, a reminder of life's fleeting nature and the impermanence of societal structures. This echoes the psychological impact of ruins, stirring feelings of loss, reflection, and the relentless march of time. The psychological weight of these images engages us on a deep, subconscious level, compelling us to confront our mortality and the fragility of our achievements.