Didn’t know that art could spark a tug-of-war? Right here stands the “Für Niki” painting. It serves as a vibrant homage to Niki de Saint Phalle, a French-Swiss artist who left an indelible mark on Hanover.
Niki became known as an artist through her Nana figures. They were installed in Hanover in 1974 on Leibnizufer. Today, they are part of the sculpture mile. But the story goes much deeper than just colorful figures.
Niki de Saint Phalle’s special connection with Hanover started in 1969. It began with a retrospective exhibition at the Kunstverein Hannover. The city offered her a public commission in 1974 to build a permanent installation.
Hanover city director Martin Neuffer wanted to modernize the city. His vision was to make it brighter and more fun. He wanted to do it with a three-year Street Art Experiment program. The main goal was to fill Hanover’s streets with unconventional artworks.
For Hannover, Saint Phalle created three Nanas. Each was more than five meters tall. They were made of fiberglass, polyester paint, and polychrome. As soon as the Nanas were erected on the Leine River bank, the citizens of Hannover split. They were divided in support and opposition of the sculptures.
The older generation thought the commission money should have gone to schools and hospitals. They thought it was futile to adorn Hanover with street art. The younger people were excited to see Hanover become more creative and vibrant.
That’s when Michael Gehrke came along. He was the city image manager of Hanover. He suggested Niki name the Nanas after “Hannover queens.” He hoped it would calm the feuding residents.
Sophie of Hannover was a patron of arts and sciences. Charlotte Kestner inspired Goethe’s “The Sorrows of Young Werther”. Caroline Herschel was an astronomer who discovered comets.
The controversy came to a head. About 2000 residents marched to the town hall. They demanded an open forum. It was even said that the Nanas distracted drivers. A pro-Nana group put up a sign warning drivers to pay attention.
The only way to end the dispute was a tug-of-war. Supporters and opponents gathered by the river. The supporters won all three rounds. The Nanas could stay.
Niki de Saint Phalle left a piece of herself in Hanover. This “Für Niki” painting reminds us of her art. It also reminds us of the city’s vibrant spirit.