Admiralstrasse

„Admiralstrasse“, Berlin/Kreuzberg

Nesting place 1983

Concept and content:
The Nestplatz could become an interweaving of imagination and everyday communication.
It is intended as an oasis in traffic. Maybe also as a place to dream. As a symbol for a possible connection with the place and as an orientation of the built-up, unrelated environment.

Situation:
Two birds have built a nest in this sore spot between houses and streets.
They are in the stage of a metamorphosis: they want to oppose the threatening vertical architecture seeing those concrete masses out over the horizon. Whether they want to build, guard or leave the nest is another matter.
There is an instinctive connection to this place. Perhaps by the "egg" that seems to be hatched in the ground.

The almost axial position of the middle bird is the vanishing point from all directions.
From the west, north and east, drivers can see the beating of their wings from afar.
Signs at the road junctions draw their attention and irritate them. "Nestplatz"!
This is a quasi nature reserve that requires special attention.
You come to the nest wall and are forced to slowly drive around it. A slight elevation of the cobblestone strip at the road junctions could also be a psychological prompt to drive more slowly. (Cuvry Strasse)
The Nestplatz is intended as a traffic and pedestrian zone. The old paving of granite slabs, mosaic and cobblestones is resumed and run centrically in and around the nest.
The wickerwork nest is open to the south towards the school and disabled centre.
The pedestrian crossing the Admiral Bridge and coming from the Fränkelufer, first sees the soaring birds in the north. After leaving the slight incline of Admiralstrasse behind, he sees the “green nest” where benches invite you to linger. At the push of a button, the birds begin their quiet “flight”. In the dark, the objects are illuminated by spotlights attached to the street lamps in the northern area.

 

 

Model for NESTING PLACE, 1983, various materials, approx. L 120 cm

Drawing for NESTING PLACE, 1983, various materials, approx. 40×33

Drawing for NESTING PLACE, 1983, pencil and ink, 84×59 cm
Drawing for NESTING PLACE, 1983, pencil and ink, 84×59 cm