Seven designs for a sculpture to be placed on the forecourt of the New CAPITOL were presented by students during a vernissage in the fully booked theater hall. “You have shown wonderfully how professionally and scientifically a project like this should be approached and implemented,” praised Mayor Bernd Fuhrmann, referring to the sculpture working group led by art teacher Janina Wolf.
The students intensively explored the design of the square in front of the New CAPITOL and the architectural history of the Herrengarten area: Zoé Obermeister, Antonia Spittel, Lotta Kolshorn, Ibrahim Hrncic, Emma Franke, Lilly Braun, Mathilda Reinhard, Mia Braun, Ruben Bertram, Anton Fenner, and Vincent Schneider.
In particular, a visit from the architect of the New CAPITOL, Monika Weber-Pahl, helped participants understand key features of the surroundings, such as the building windows and the unique cobblestone paving. Additional support came from the University of Siegen. Through exchanges with students from the departments of art and architecture, the JAG students gained insight into the theoretical concept of sculpture and working with metal as a material.
In a video conference organized by the university with sculptor Samuel Treindl, the students also learned important aspects of art in public spaces. Equipped with this knowledge, they refined their designs and were later able to work on their models in the workshop of the Wittgenstein Education Center (BZW), together with apprentices from various local companies. The apprentices assessed whether the designs were feasible. Drawing, filing, and welding continued until all participants were satisfied with the results.
What happens next? Are there chances for realization? What might a timeline look like? For now, the vote of the vernissage visitors and the opinions of the people of Bad Berleburg remain to be seen. The sculpture group itself will also select a “favorite” among the seven designs.
For further implementation, the City of Bad Berleburg will play a key role. Mayor Bernd Fuhrmann suggested that the students present their project and designs to the relevant committee of the city council. At the same time, the city’s departments must examine structural requirements, including the choice of materials.
Finally, funding questions must be resolved – whether grants, such as from LEADER programs, can be used, or whether local companies might contribute financially, as was the case with the renovation of the Bürgerhaus at the market square. Christian Kocherscheidt, CEO of the EJOT Group and co-owner of the New CAPITOL, left the door slightly open. Speaking on stage during an interview with student Hanna Wiegnanek, he said: “I’ll put it like James Bond – never say never.”
The discussion about which sculpture would ultimately win the vote dominated conversations during the vernissage. It quickly became clear that all designs deserved to be displayed in public space. A compelling and inspiring thought – that young people are seriously engaging in shaping the artistic identity of their city.