De Grote Boodschap  (EN: The Big Message)

Dutch saying for ‘Taking a shit’

In today’s world, we are constantly confronted with complex issues that demand our attention and stance. The Dutch NGO and human rights organization Humanistisch Verbond aims to help individuals explore their personal beliefs and the role they play in society. But how do you uncover what truly defines you? How do you break down big ideas into a personal statement that reflects your essence?

According to ‘toilet philosophy,’ our deepest thoughts and insights emerge when we’re on the toilet. This large-scale toilet installation creates a reflective space for individuals to contemplate their own Grote Boodschap—a phrase that, in Dutch, means both Big Message and is a euphemism for taking a shit.

After spending a few moments in solitary reflection, participants will distill their thoughts into a single powerful sentence: their own Big Message. Each of these one-sentence wisdoms will then be immortalized on a traditional Dutch toilet tile, ultimately covering the restroom walls with the collective wisdom of today’s society.

A commissioned project for Humanistisch Verbond at Impact Fair 2024.