Self-playing instrument by artist Thijs Jaeger

Birth-Elements-One-World is an spectacular piece that features a wooden structure with a series of handcrafted bronze bells, created using a combination of 3D-printing techniques and hand-sculpted wax molds. Just like the instruments in Museum Speelklok, Jaeger’s creation can play automatically – powered by a built-in drum computer – but it can also be played live by the artist himself.

Temple Bells

Thijs Jaeger draws inspiration from the temple bells found in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, incorporating his personal search for connection to his Indonesian heritage. Although he has always felt distanced from this part of his background, he discovered that temple bells in Indonesia serve as a way to connect with ancestors. The layered rhythms and haunting ethereal sounds of his instrument are also reminiscent of traditional Indonesian gamelan orchestras. Through his work, Jaeger seeks to find balance – between the digital and the human, and between the past and the present.

A new Gunungan artwork for the museum

In addition to the instrument, Jaeger has created a new artwork for Museum Speelklok: a gunungan. In Javanese and Balinese culture, the gunungan – a colorful, fan-shaped figure – plays an essential role in wayang performances (traditional shadow puppet theater with spiritual roots). The gunungan symbolizes both the beginning and end of a story and helps express the emotional depth of the performance. In his artwork, Jaeger includes symbols that reflect his personal connection to his Indonesian heritage.

Special performance on April 11

On Friday, April 11, at 16.00, Thijs Jaeger will perform live on Birth-Elements-One-World. After the performance, there will be an opportunity to meet the artist over drinks and snacks. Admission is free, but please register in advance via info@museumspeelklok.nl, using the subject ‘Thijs Jaeger’. We look forward to seeing you there!