You’re standing right in front of the Gerundetes Blau sculpture in Munich, a striking blue oval that seems to pulsate with life, right? It’s a landmark everyone in Munich seems to know, whether they’re an art aficionado or just a regular passer-by. It’s affectionately nicknamed “The Tin of Nivea” due to its shape and color.
This imposing sculpture was crafted by Rupprecht Geiger, a renowned Munich artist and architect. He was commissioned to create a piece for the Gasteig, the city’s arts center. It was installed in 1987, two years after the Gasteig opened its doors. The sculpture, which is about 6.5 meters wide and weighs a whopping 12 tonnes, is made of sheet steel and coated in ultramarine blue acrylic.
Its creation was a remarkable feat. Two giant cranes were needed to lift the Gerundetes Blau onto a flat-bed lorry, transporting it from Haidhausen to Sendling. The whole operation required meticulous planning with the city’s traffic authorities. The sculpture was moved again in 2023, while the arts centre was under renovation. It’s now permanently in front of the Gasteig HP8, another branch of the Gasteig cultural center.
The artwork stands out against the reddish brick background of the arts center, its smooth, rounded form a stark contrast to the building’s more angular architecture. Geiger chose the shape and color intentionally. He wanted the sculpture to be a dramatic focal point, a bold statement that would draw the eye from afar.
The Gerundetes Blau has become an integral part of the Gasteig, a symbol of the city’s commitment to culture and artistic expression. It’s a reminder of how art can transform public spaces, making them vibrant and engaging. If you’re wondering what to do next on your tour through Munich, look no further than the Gerundetes Blau.