World-famous New York photo inspires unique art installation in the Wandelhalle from March 27, 2024
The Lechnerhof artists’ studio, led by Christel and Laura Lechner, developed the innovative concrete installation exclusively for the Wandelhalle as part of their Alltagsmenschen art series, which will initially be on display for 4 months from 27.03.2024. It bears the name “Gateway to the World” and was inspired by the world-famous New York photo “Lunch atop a Skyscraper”. The installation is intended to create a lively connection between art, historic architecture and everyday life.
For the next few months, a group of five Alltagsmenschen will take a seat on the railing under the historical clock in the Wandelhalle (entrance to Glockengießerwall). Die in sich ruhenden Alltagsmenschen scheinen dort gemütlich zu sitzen, lassen die Beine baumeln und beobachten das pulsierende Leben des Bahnhofs. The sculptures symbolize the diversity and internationality of guests at the main station – from travellers and tourists to commuters and residents. They invite visitors to pause for a moment, experience a special encounter with everyday life and become part of the art.
The installation is accompanied by the “man with a suitcase”. He is also one of the Alltagsmenschen and stands at the bottom of the escalator in the Wandelhalle (Glockengießerwall entrance). An encounter with him invites you to “pause”, to touch him and, of course, to take a selfie.
The Lechnerhof artists’ association has been known throughout Europe for many years for its Alltagsmenschen installations in public spaces. The exhibits have already created very special encounters between people and art in many places.
“Our sculptures should surprise and connect. It fills me with great joy, pride and awe that our Alltagsmenschen will be presented in the Wandelhalle at Hamburg Central Station from March 27, 2024. It is overwhelming to know that more than 550,000 people who use the main station every day* have the opportunity to meet Alltagsmenschen here and be close to them,” says Laura Lechner, the creator of the “Gateway to the World” seating group.
“Wandelhalle is delighted to be able to present the unique art of the Lechnerhof artists’ community to visitors,” says Daniel Martens, Managing Director of Wandelhalle Management. “For our visitors, this marks the start of a very special cultural experience here with us, which will certainly enrich Hamburg.”
Further information about Atelier Lechner, the CV of Laura Lechner & Christel Lechner as well as photo material of other Alltagsmenschen can be found on the studio’s press page: https://www.alltagsmenschen.de/presse-alltagsmenschen
