Surely, you may wonder about this peculiar structure. It’s the Installation “Trichter”. This artwork is located at the intersection of Dr.-Külz-Ring and Seestraße. The Trichter has been here since June 2011.
The artist Franka Hörnschemeyer created this walk-in installation. The Trichter is more than just an eye-catching piece. It serves as a reminder of Dresden’s history. In the 19th century Dresden was among the first German cities with a sewer system.
Look closely. You can see parts of the underground sewer system. Also, you can view the historic Seetor through a Plexiglas panel. The boulevard press even nicknamed it “Klo-Kino”. This translates to “toilet cinema”.
Notice the funnel shape. A staircase descends within a funnel-shaped concrete structure. This design is intended to draw people downwards. The narrowing funnel visually pulls pedestrians toward the viewing window.
The experience can be surprising. The descent doesn’t lead to additional rooms. Instead, it ends at the glass pane.
The Trichter’s construction wasn’t without challenges. There were years of disputes over funding and location. Back in 2003 a jury of international experts chose Franka Hörnschemeyer’s design as the winner of a competition with 520 participants. But it wasn’t until November 19 2009 that the city council approved the Trichter’s realization. After four months of construction the Trichter was inaugurated in June 2011.
The Trichter received the prize for art in public spaces from mfi management für immobilien AG in early December 2011. This internationally recognized prize included 50000 euros. A seven-member jury of art historians, critics, and architects justified their decision.
The jury stated that the Trichter makes something visible without decorating. They said that the form and material reference a sewer system. They thought this system deserved to be experienced visually and acoustically.
Currently an explanatory panel is still missing. This panel would provide visitors with the artwork’s background.
The Trichter often surprises visitors. People are not able to access more rooms. The visitors are only able to look at the glass screen. The Trichter brings awareness to the sewage system of Dresden in an artistic way.
The Trichter is a talking point and encourages us to reflect on the city’s history. It also encourages us to reflect on the infrastructure beneath our feet. It is a reminder that even the most functional systems can inspire art. The prize-winning Trichter is more than just an installation. It is a unique blend of art, history, and urban awareness.