In mid-December 2022 a proposal was submitted for the art-for-architecture competition for Esslingen University at the new Weststadt campus. A design for a ceiling painting in the outside area was proposed, entitled “Klinker-Turbo” (Brick Turbo).
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Esslingen University provides academic teaching with a strong practical element, as well as applied research. The university does all of this in five different disciplines. This diversity has a common denominator that can be summarised as follows: the university prepares the way for innovations. It puts innovations in motion and pushes them forwards. Innovative dynamism is therefore the theme of this artistic concept.
The dynamic of innovation as an abstract entity originates in a specific place: the new university building. By means of its brick façade, this building lends an identity. Brick as a building material derives a causal meaning as an initiatory element. The brick is a foundation of innovation processes.
The art concept gives the new building a voice by lending meaning to its basic element, the brick. The brick contributes to the dynamics of innovation by creating prerequisites. The image of the Brick Turbo represents this. The static constructive element becomes dynamic. A rotation of brick radiates from the window bays of the lower storey. In this way, the Brick Turbo gains a double relationship to the architecture: firstly, a relationship of material, secondly of structure.
This dynamization of the brick gains life not only from its formal treatment, but equally from the colour. Thus, the brick comes to life in two ways.
The suggestive power of the Brick Turbo lends an identity to the university building. It motivates young people. It stimulates them, spurs them on and drives them forwards.