“My Dear One” whispers the wind through the antennae. This is Ilya Kabakov’s Blickst Du hinauf und liest die Worte a 15-meter-high steel mast. It stands tall near Münster’s Aasee lake. This isn’t just any sculpture. It’s a permanent installation part of the Skulptur Projekte Münster. These projects have been transforming Münster since 1977. Kabakov’s artwork appeared in 1997.
The mast resembles a radio transmitter. It’s a symbol of our technologically advanced society. But look closer. Between the 22 antennae delicate metal lettering is almost hidden. Lie down. Look up. Then you’ll see Kabakov’s message. It’s a poetic text. It speaks of lying in the grass. It’s about the simple beauty of the sky.
The text speaks of “the very best thing that you have ever done or seen in your life”. It’s a message of simple beauty. It’s a reminder to appreciate the small things. Kabakov even playfully criticizes information overload. His simple message contrasts with the complexity of modern communication. He suggests that real connection is still possible. It’s found in moments of quiet contemplation. The shimmering letters in sunlight remind us of electronic signals. However these signals are made from real metal. They are a material reminder of communication.
The Blickst Du hinauf und liest die Worte sculpture is owned by the LWL Museum. It’s a lasting reminder of Kabakov’s artistic vision. It’s a beautiful sculpture. It’s a thoughtful reflection on our relationship with technology and nature. Remember this poignant message. It was created by Ilya Kabakov. He sadly passed away in 2023 in New York. His artwork lives on in Münster. It continues to invite contemplation. And it encourages us all to look up. To appreciate the simple beauty of the world around us.