Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE)

One of the largest research complexes in North Rhine-Westphalia has been set up for the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) on the premises of the Bonn University Hospital. In the future, over 500 employees will devote themselves to research into diseases of the nervous system in the 16,000 square meter complex of the three buildings and will further promote the international visibility of research at the DZNE.

The landscape planning with groups of pines and oaks, whose seasonal variety of colors is reflected in the lamellas of the building, is designed as a conscious connection between architecture and nature.

This is where the idea of ​​the art concept that Samuelis Baumgarte Art Consulting developed for the DZNE comes in. The main building's main thoroughfare forms the basis of the artistic design measure. "Outside - inside - outside" should run through the artistic design along the central line of sight: in front of the building, in the continuous entrance hall of the building and in a wooded green area behind the building, which is directly connected to the entrance hall.

Samuelis Baumgarte Art Consulting organized an artist competition in which three completely different artistic positions presented their exploration of the topic of "Science and Research at the DZNE". The installation “Transfiguration” by the Scottish sculptor Rob Mulholland, which is strongly focused on awareness and perception, was able to convince the jury directly.

Rob Mulholland describes his artistic thoughts on the project and his sculptural installation below:

“During my on-site visit, the resemblance of the building's function to a functioning brain membrane stood out: full of compartments and passages, interconnected to create thoughts and ideas. The scientists inside the building represent the receptors and axons. They carry out tests individually, develop new ideas in their laboratories and communicate these creative thoughts to their colleagues. Like the signals from the neurotransmitters in our brain, every single thought and dialogue is linked to one another, transmitted through the entire building, and in constant interaction.

My sculpture proposal creates a visual path for the viewer who takes them on a journey, starting at the front of the building, through the entrance hall and out into the wooded space. My concept seeks to convey a physical-philosophical path to well-being."