Abstrakte Bepflanzung

Amidst the vibrant landscape of ETH Zurich’s Hönggerberg campus, lies a hidden gem. It’s a testament to post-war modernist landscape architecture. This is the Abstrakte Bepflanzung, a unique artwork crafted by Marianne Olsen in 1983. The Abstrakte Bepflanzung is more than just an art piece. It’s a tranquil oasis within a bustling academic hub. It showcases the innovative spirit of a time when art and nature intertwined seamlessly. The Albert-Steiner-Garten, where the Abstrakte Bepflanzung resides, is a living example of this fusion. Designed by Willi Neukom, the garden’s abstract naturalism provides the perfect backdrop for Olsen’s creation. The garden itself, named after the renowned architect Albert Heinrich Steiner, reflects his vision for the campus. Steiner, a former master architect of Zurich and ETH professor, envisioned a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. This vision is beautifully embodied in the garden’s design, with its sprawling lawn, fire-prevention pond, and diverse flora. Neukom’s distinctive style, characterized by his unconventional approach to landscape design, enhances the setting of the Abstrakte Bepflanzung. His incorporation of pines, ironwood trees, shrubs, and heath-like ground shrubbery creates a textured and engaging environment. The garden’s terraced area adds another layer of visual interest. The Abstrakte Bepflanzung, within this dynamic setting, invites contemplation and reflection. Its abstract form encourages viewers to interpret its meaning in their own way, creating a personal connection with the artwork and its surroundings. The garden’s serene atmosphere further enhances this experience, offering a respite from the academic intensity of the campus.