... woher ich stamme, wohin ich falle, das ist alles überwunden. Ich drehe eine Scheibe und werde gedreht.

Gottfried Benn, Der Ptolemäer, 1949

I. Turning a disc and, in turn, being turned as well (light blue and rosy), 2018, coated steel, 607 x 363 x 154 cm, 3,25 t

II. Turning a disc and, in turn, being turned as well (rosy and light blue), 2018, coated steel, 495 x 307 x 145 cm, 2,45 t

For the outdoor space located in the inner courtyard of the Institute of Quantum Physics and Bio Science at Ulm University, I proposed two corresponding, irregular steel portals reaching up to six meters in height.

Their carefully chosen color scheme, featuring delicate shades of rose and light blue, draws direct inspiration from the unique anomalies found in diamonds, which hold particular significance for the research center’s innovative work.

Each angle viewed through these portals reveals fresh perspectives and subtle shifts in the interplay of light and shadow, creating a continuously evolving and dynamic visual experience.

Since ancient times, portals have symbolized special moments: the act of entering new spaces and crossing boundaries into previously unknown territory. They invite visitors to engage in discovery and exploration of what lies beyond, and because of the constantly changing relations of shadow and light, as well as full and empty spaces throughout the day, they captivate the eye and become a striking landmark.

At the same time, these portals serve a practical function, allowing people to use them as places of encounter and active exchange, they encourage unexpected shifts in viewpoint, enabling one’s own position to become more distinct, consciously experienced, and tangibly present.