The sculpture ‘ Begegnung 2024’ depicts a pair of figures of a similar genre, with different gender characteristics indicating male and female. The design and material are harmonised, so that a certain familiarity with each other can be assumed. The close positioning of the figures facing each other gives the impression that they belong together, that they are friends. An encounter, accidental or planned, with a subsequent dialogue is indicated. A sculpture with two figures creates a dynamism, a correspondence with each other, whereas a singular figure would stand on its own. The sculpture is located opposite the “elephant”, a little away from the stream of visitors, but clearly visible in the centre of a small winding path. The path runs like a loop around the figures and offers an all-round view of the sculpture. The winding path suggests an image of a love seat, a two-seater bench on which you don’t sit next to each other, but opposite each other, vis-à-vis. One could interpret that an amorous encounter is taking place. Maxipark Hamm
The material is 40 mm Corten steel; a protective rust patina forms on the surface and the colour remains homogeneous, changing from golden to deep red depending on the weather. The silhouette-like figures are approx. 250 cm high, with a curved aesthetic dynamism of their own, the edges are gently rounded and have a smooth finish.The sculpture was created in close co-operation with the Demandt metal works in Liesborn.
The title ‘BEGEGNUNG 2024’ refers to the year the sculpture was created as well as the anniversary year of the Maxipark, and the fact that I have used ‘Begegnung’ as a title in different ways over the years. The sculpture was donated to the Hamm Maximilianpark by the Kley family on the occasion of the park’s 40th anniversary. The donation was made in memory of Anneliese and Werner Kley, who were committed to art and nature throughout their lives and played a key role in the establishment of the Maxipark. Galerie Kley
