The artwork was commissioned by BKOR in December 2024 Don't give racism a chance (1988) by artist Ro Heilbron (1938-2014) restored by Opperclaes (Bruce Tsai-Meu-Chong) and Erico Smit. The work was festively unveiled at its original location, on the corner of Jagthuisstraat and Essenburgstraat. To provide more context to the importance of Ro Heilbron's work, a short documentary was made by Brand New Guys.
In this recording, artists Erico Smit, Hedy Tjin, Farida Sedoc and Bruce Tsai-Meu-Chong have sat down at the table with Jeanet Heilbron, widow of Ro Heilbron. While enjoying Heilbron's favourite dish, they discuss the restoration, Heilbron's oeuvre and its significance.
In the context of 150 years of colonial and slavery history, Opperclaes launched the project in 2023 Ro!Heilbron!, with the aim of honouring and preserving the legacy of Heilbron. Opperclaes then restored two other paintings of Heilbron in the Hofbogen, namely Vrouwen en Surinamese hut. Eric Smith, Hedy Tjin, Farida Sedoc each made a new mural.
