Old grape greenhouses in the West Country by Nicolaas Digi Art

About "Old grape greenhouses in the West Country"

by Nicolaas Digi Art

About the artwork

Grape cultivation in the Westland (Netherlands), especially in the years between 1950 and 1970, was a common source of income. Grapes were grown seasonally in special greenhouses, i.e. grape greenhouses. Many traditions are associated with this cultivation. The "curling" of the grapes was in intensive and specialized work, this as an example of the specialized, All hand work, in difficult conditions. Over time, competition from abroad increased and fewer and fewer grapes were grown in the Westland. Growers (horticulturists, then called) stopped growing grapes. Some replaced the greenhouses with other larger structures, the well-known warehouses. Some gardeners left the upbuildings, grape greenhouses, standing.... Time, weather conditions, had their impact on the greenhouses. Glass broke due to storms.... Wood rotted by rain, wind and sun.... What remains is the sight. Beautiful through age. Beautiful through decay. Melancholy by the memory of how it once was. I found these greenhouses because I grew up in the same area. It also reminds me of my childhood. Wonderful memories. My father also grew grapes. Grapes were also grown at our place. A special time, a warm atmosphere and hardworking people. Also a time of sociability. Happy with little and never grumpy. All this I pondered as I took the photo and then edited it. A beautiful reminder of what was. At your home, at your company on the wall.....