“Walls of Vision” – Art in Public Space

Building-high August Macke interpretation by Alanus student in downtown Bonn.

The talented art student Marie Hesse from Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences in Alfter near Bonn has created an impressive, building-high reinterpretation of the famous August Macke painting “Girl with Blue Birds” from 1914 as part of the Dr. Hans Riegel Foundation’s urban arts project “Walls of Vision.” The artwork is located opposite the August Macke House in downtown Bonn and is a colorful homage to the Expressionist master.

Marie Hesse explains: “I was particularly fascinated by the vibrant colors and the powerful presence of the blue birds in Macke’s painting.” The Bonn-based artist wanted to create a connection to Macke’s life. That is why the Siebengebirge mountain range can be seen in the background of her work – a small tribute to the artist and his connection to the region.

The central theme of Macke’s art is the relationship between humans and animals. Marie Hesse emphasizes: “I was also deeply moved by how important engaging with nature was for Macke and how much it inspired him. This fascination with nature is also reflected in my work. Especially in an urban environment, where many people are separated from nature, art can once again bring the beauty and significance of nature before our eyes and reconnect us with it.”

Implementing the artwork on site was a real challenge, as only five days were available for completion – and two of those days were interrupted by rain. “Thanks to the dedicated team of three people, we were still able to establish a good workflow,” reports Marie Hesse. At first, transferring the original to the wall was somewhat difficult, since wall paints become darker as they dry. With a little practice and experience, however, handling the colors became much easier over time.

The project “Walls of Vision” was launched in 2019 by the Dr. Hans Riegel Foundation and offers urban arts artists the opportunity to reinterpret significant artworks from the past in a contemporary way. The facade paintings are publicly accessible and enrich the cityscape – free of charge and open to everyone.

It is definitely worth a visit to discover this fascinating artwork in downtown Bonn!

Anyone who would like to experience Marie Hesse live should save the date for May 18. The August Macke Festival will take place in Bonn on that day, where Marie Hesse will lead a workshop together with the August Macke House. Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., children and anyone interested will have the opportunity to experience up close what August Macke’s original “Girl with Blue Birds” and Marie Hesse’s mural are all about. The workshop will take place in the August Macke House workshop and does not require prior registration.

Contact the artists on Instagram:

@mariehesse.art
@aphenoah

Photos: Florian Yeh / Dr. Hans Riegel Foundation

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