New DEVK high-rise: Art installation inspires Cologne citizens!

New DEVK high-rise: Art installation inspires Cologne citizens!

A lot is happening in Cologne! Today, June 23, 2025, the plans for the new DEVK headquarters in the Riehl district were presented. A modern high-rise building is to be built here, which will be built on the site of the previous zoo park building. The public was invited to discuss the designs at an event in Cologne's Flora. The visitors had the opportunity to make suggestions and suggestions for further planning. This is an important step in actively involving citizens in the development process, in the spirit of vibrant urban design.

A special highlight of the event is the art installation “90 Meters of Happiness,” which can be seen along the construction fence of the new DEVK headquarters. This exhibition includes a total of 25 pictures by the Cologne artist HA Schult, which are inspired by the moments of happiness and emotions of the people of Cologne. These colorful exhibits are more than just works of art; They form a kind of “score” and represent a collective mental image of the city. This shows what moves people here and how they experience everyday life. The images are a colorful mix of drawings, personal texts and photos that capture special experiences and ensure that the people of Cologne's moments of happiness become visible. According to HA Schult, it is a multi-part composition that reaches the hearts of the city's residents and reminds them of their diverse memories.

Public art as an identity factor

But artistic creation doesn't stop there - it's part of a larger trend: public art in urban spaces plays a crucial role in promoting cultural identity and social cohesion in cities. Initiatives like the Ostseite Gallery in Berlin have shown how creative urban design can revitalize entire neighborhoods. The focus here is on murals, sculptures and interactive installations that transform previously neglected areas into lively centers.

However, such art projects often face challenges such as funding and regulatory hurdles, which sometimes inhibit citizen engagement. Nevertheless, the focus on sustainable and participatory design is forward-looking and is becoming increasingly important. Public art not only promotes urban identity, but also reflects the values ​​and history of a community. In this way, the needs and wishes of the residents are specifically integrated into the development process. Citizen accountability and engagement with public artworks strengthens a sense of belonging.

With these initiatives, Cologne will not only be more beautiful, but also more diverse and more livable. The DEVK headquarters and the associated art installations are a great example of how you can creatively reshape a city's identity. We can't wait to see how this exciting project develops and how many citizens will actively participate in it!

For further information on the subject of art in public spaces and the DEVK headquarters, you can read the articles from Radio Cologne, DEVK and The learning city read.