Uncovering Animal Portraits within the Subway System
In the heart of Bad Cannstatt, the Ebitzweg Underpass has been transformed into a captivating art gallery, thanks to the "Art Brut Devizes" exhibition. This special display, curated by artist Marianne Mäerkle-Majewski, showcases a collection of colourful paintings featuring animal faces, created by individuals with disabilities from the open support services of the Diakonie Stetten.
Marianne Mäerkle-Majewski, a core artist in the project, guided the participants in creating these unique works of art. She was surprised and delighted by the artists' ability to interpret and implement the artistic idea so well. Each artist developed their own distinct style, resulting in a diverse and engaging display.
The paintings, which depict a variety of animals such as cheetahs, llamas, and monkeys, were created between February and March. They are prime examples of "Art Brut", a term that refers to raw, spontaneous, and emotional art. The artists immersed themselves in the colours during the creation process, and the paintings truly reflect what moved them, with minimal assistance.
Dietmar Kazmaier, a special educator at the Diakonie Stetten, was pleased with the artists' dedication. Calendars with animal faces served as templates for the paintings, providing a starting point for the artists' creative expressions.
The Coop-Uno team is currently displaying these paintings as part of the "art in the Cannstatter Underworld" special exhibition. The "Cooperative UnOrte" or "Coop Uno" group is responsible for revitalizing "lost spaces" like underpasses through creative and artistic interventions.
The exhibition runs until September 20th, offering the public a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant and moving world of "Art Brut". The Ebitzweg Underpass has never looked so beautiful, and the community of Bad Cannstatt has a new cultural gem to enjoy.
Marianne Mäerkle-Majewski's unique art project with the Diakonie Stetten participants has extended beyond the "Art Brut Devizes" exhibition, as their home-and-garden calendars adorned with animal faces are now displayed as part of the "art in the Cannstatter Underworld" exhibition by Coop-Uno. This beautiful, diverse, and moving collection of "Art Brut" paintings will be on display until September 20th, providing the community of Bad Cannstatt with a new lifestyle attraction to enjoy.
