Laurelle Sculpture

Beneath Laurelle’s gaze, a silent story unfolds. The Laurelle Sculpture, a seven-meter-tall woman’s head cast in iron, graces Bad Godesberg’s train station square. This striking piece by Jaume Plensa, the Spanish artist known for his large-scale public works, arrived in Bonn in May 2024. The Stiftung für Kunst und Kultur gifted Laurelle to the city, covering all costs for its ten-year stay. Plensa personally chose the location, inspired by Bad Godesberg’s history. The sculpture appears to grow directly from the ground, her closed eyes inviting contemplation rather than shutting out the world. Laurelle’s placement wasn’t without controversy. Debates arose regarding the material, size, and location. The city’s art commission worried about the iron heating up in direct sunlight, posing a risk to those who touch it. The location, framed by the station building, a fountain, and a pavilion, raised concerns about preserving the historical character of the square. Despite these challenges, Laurelle stands tall, placing Bad Godesberg alongside cities like New York, London, and Seoul, which also boast Plensa’s works. Laurelle is not merely a piece of art. It is a statement, sparking dialogue about our relationship with public spaces and the kind of city we want to live in. It is a testament to private engagement with public art. Laurelle’s presence challenges us to form our own opinions, to engage with art, and to contemplate her place in the heart of Bad Godesberg.