Dutch Museum Honors Late Artist Wim T. Schippers with 360-Kilo Peanut Butter Floor Installation

The Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam unveiled a unique art installation covering a 25-square-meter hexagonal floor with a 2-centimeter-thick layer of over 360 kilograms (approximately 800 pounds) of peanut butter. This exhibit, titled "Peanut Butter Floor," pays tribute to the late Dutch conceptual artist Wim T. Schippers, who passed away last month at age 83. Schippers was known for challenging traditional art boundaries and was also the Dutch voice of characters like Ernie and Kermit on the local version of Sesame Street.

The current installation is the third recreation of Schippers' original 1969 "Floor Covers" series, which previously included floors covered with broken glass and salt. Before his death, Schippers collaborated with the museum to produce a detailed 20-point plan to ensure the peanut butter was spread as smoothly and monotonously as possible. The museum staff used 40 buckets of Calvé peanut butter, donated by the brand, to complete the intensive work.

Visitors are greeted by the strong scent of peanut butter even on the third floor below the exhibit, and allergy warnings are posted at the entrance. The artwork aims to provoke reflection on conventional art by using everyday materials. The piece has a history of memorable moments, including a 1997 showing in Utrecht where visitors added bread slices and chocolate candies, which Schippers appreciated. In 2011, some visitors accidentally stepped onto the sticky surface, becoming part of the artistic experience. The exhibit will remain on display for two months.