Street art, typically the archetypal representation of counterculture and rebellion, can sometimes prove even more effective in subverting the powers that be when it contributes to the beautification of one of mankind’s most regimented aspects of the “system”: defense. Such a goal is achieved through Dutch duo Telmo Miel’s most recent piece “As Far As The World Extends” completed for the Royal Netherland Marine Corps. “As Far As The World Extends” is found in one of the Netherland’s most historic marine basis in Rotterdam.
The piece adorns one full wall of a standalone building on the Van Ghent marine base, and pays homage to the past legacy and future work of this esteemed leg of the Dutch defense forces. Its title is actually an English translation of the Dutch marine motto, “Qua Patet Orbis.” This new mural communicates the sense of solemn respect that the marines have for their responsibility to protect their people and the world at large. The right side of the composition features an arrangement of staunch aligned marines with their fists in the air, stoically ready for whatever may accost them. The focal point of the mural juxtaposes this with a more contemplative marine, eyes turned downward in an atmosphere of reverence.
“As Far As The World Extends” showcases Telmo Miel’s trademark blend of hyperrealism and abstraction. The figures and ocean in the background are incredibly lifelike; viewers can almost hear the waves crashing and the shuffling of feet as soldiers stand in formation. However, the mural arranges its components in a more abstract manner. A hand reaches from behind a swath of solid blue to cover the main Marine’s hat. Other swaths of opaque blue and red add further interest.
In completing this work, the artists noted that they were allowed a unique opportunity to glimpse into the marines’ daily routines. In turn, it could be posited that Telmo Miel’s presence also became a part of those routines. The location of “As Far As The World Extends” resonates deeply with these two artists, who are Dutch themselves and met at the Willem de Kooning Academy in Rotterdam in 2007. The two continued on to start their first crew, Codex Inferno, which eventually became the partnership they have today in 2012. That year, the two artists also created their creative company Sober Collective, based in Rotterdam as well.
Van Ghent is a training site for the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps. Because Marines need to be trained as sea soldiers, the Dutch Marine Corps informational website explains that “training must take place on the border between land and water … In river deltas, in the mountains, in extremely cold weather and in the jungle … But also in the desert and in urban areas.” Van Ghent finds itself in the latter setting.
It is worth noting that “As Far As The World Extends” does not appear to take any particularly political stance. This suits its setting. The mural is set in a barracks area where new marines learn to correctly fill their roles, therefore, it is necessary that the work conveys a humanistic aura of respect and restraint. Furthermore, the strong but restrained energy of the piece perhaps makes a statement larger than any overtly political stands could communicate. In an organization as crucial to our world as defense seems to be, respect can be far more effective than sheer power.
