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Bergkamen and the Kuhbach
Bergkamen
Bergkamen and the Kuhbach
Table of contents
Bergkamen
Bergkamen and the Kuhbach
A rectangular concrete pipe stands near the Schönhausen pumping station. It is what is known as a manhole collar. Originally, this component served as an access point for sewer maintenance. Such manholes connect the visible landscape with the underground sewer system. Sculptor Peter Wiesemann from Bönen transformed this functional object into a work of art. It is titled “Bergkamen and the Kuhbach.”
Working with Concrete
Wiesemann created the sculpture in 2004 and 2005. He used a hammer, chisel, and heavy drilling equipment for the work. He carved deep reliefs and openings into the hard walls. The perforated side walls symbolize the modern course of the Kuhbach. Today, the wastewater flows hidden through the ground in concrete pipes.
Images of the City
In the upper part of the shaft, well-known landmarks from Bergkamen can be seen. The milled patterns depict the residential tower, a mine tower, and the power plant. Residential buildings and trees are also carved into the stone. Thin lines on the outer sides represent the wastewater. These lines lead from the city above ground directly into the canal. The artwork thus documents the history and ecological transformation of the waterway.
Protection from the Water
On one side are five symbols carved into the stone. These symbols refer to the Lippeverband. They represent the five pumps at the Schönhausen pumping station. The artwork thus serves as a reminder of a technical necessity. The pumps continuously remove the water, protecting Bergkamen from flooding and keeping the urban area dry.