I asked my father which family story would be interesting. It’s worth noting that we have been researching our family tree for many years. He shared the story of Klaas Goudka, and I decided this would be the story to tell. The process began with research: What will I include and how will I present it? I also discovered information about his parents and gathered more details about his family.

I think my father and I revised the text at least eight times. We often debated what Klaas might have felt or left unsaid, as well as where pauses should be placed. A lot of thought went into this.

I chose locations like the Hondsbossche Zeewering in North Holland for the dike photos, aiming for a timeless look, and was fortunate to have perfect weather.

For the prison scenes, I visited the Koepel prison in Haarlem, now repurposed for people and companies, but surrounded by old buildings. The bed in the photo was exactly what I needed.

To depict Klaas’ long journey, I chose a forest path at Anna’s farm in Hilversum, finding the perfect spot there as well.

The cheese sandwiches posed a challenge. I researched the type of bread and cheese they might have used, opting for a simple, period-appropriate sandwich and making ship’s rusk from flour, water, and salt. Cheese cubes felt the most authentic for the composition.

A lot of hours went into this project, from selecting period-appropriate clothes to matching colors. People were grouped according to the fashion of the time. For Klaas as a soldier, I referenced SchoolTV to see a Dutch foot soldier from 1800.

Creating the family required them to look similar but not identical. The constable’s uniform also needed accurate research.

For the animated food, I used a self-made wood texture and enlarged hands to create beer and pea soup.