After arriving at Essen Main Station, train travellers find this sculpture near the station hall. The work “Steile Lagerung” by sculptor Max Kratz reminds us that Essen was one of the largest mining towns in Europe for a certain period.
Category: Public Art
“Arschbombe” in Kassel
After leaving Kassel Central Station, you may see this odd diving platform on a hotel roof. The explanation for this strange view: It’s a piece of public art. The title of the artwork is “Arschbombe”. Its creator was Ralph Raabe.
Imperia in Constance
The statue of Imperia is placed at the port of Konstanz (Constance). It reminds us of the Konzil von Kostanz (Council of Constance) in the years 1414-1418. The rotating statue serves as a prominent landmark for passengers of ships on Bodensee (Lake Constance).
Sculpture L’Ange Protecteur
Walking through Zürich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Central Station), I came across this public art created by Niki de Saint Phalle. The sculpture, dating back to 1997, is titled L’Ange Protecteur. That literally means Guardian Angel.
Interior by Peter Kogler
In 2003, the capital city of Styria got the title “European Capital of Culture”. In the same year, Graz Central Station saw a major renovation. Artist Peter Kogler was elected to decorate the entrance hall of the railway station.
The Golden Calf by Hollein
This artwork by Hans Hollein stood in front of the Neue Galerie in Graz for several weeks. The former tank wagon for petroleum is named “The Golden Calf”. I guess this refers to the golden calf in the bible and the importance of oil for mankind.
“Die Sendung mit der Maus” in Erfurt
Memories! For many children in Germany and Austria, these wise guys were stars of the TV series Die Sendung mit der Maus (The Show with the Mouse). On your urban walk through Erfurt, you will find several heroes of German children’s TV series.
Käpt’n Blaubär and Hein Blöd
These sculptures on the river Gera in Erfurt represent Käpt’n Blaubär and Hein Blöd. Both were stars in a German children’s television series. Käpt’n Blaubär (Captain Bluebear) also appeared in the educational children’s television series Die Sendung mit der Maus.
Quotes at Weimar Houses
The quotes on the house walls of Weimar are a challenge for attentive walks. They inspire not only to look at gable ends but also to reflect. For example, let us take this quote from the French writer Jules Renard: “If you know life, please give me its address”.
„Pietá“ by Anna Chromy
In 1999 a strange figurine appeared in the city of Salzburg. It had chosen a prominent place under the Cathedral Archway between Domplatz and Kapitelplatz: The sculpture „Pietá“ by Czech painter and sculptor Anna Chromy.
Huge music stands at Querfurt Castle
Three music stands (Notenständer) with a height of four metres remind me that Querfurt Castle (Burg Querfurt) houses a music school. Artist Ingo Güttler created these music stands that play music and form a sound installation. During festivals, the music stands will be removed.
Wall of Hope in Vienna
At the railway station Matzleinsdorferplatz one can see this artwork made of ceramic tiles. Students of about 20 Viennese schools put down their dreams and hopes for the 21st century in this artwork.