Art in the straw: The new highlights in Lüdinghausen and Seppenrade!

Art in the straw: The new highlights in Lüdinghausen and Seppenrade!

In Lüdinghausen and Seppenrade, new, conspicuous works of art from straw have recently been set up. A highlight is the replica of the St. Dionysius Church, which was built in a field near the roundabout in Rosendorf. This installation blends harmoniously into the rural environment and creates a special connection to the regional history of church architecture.

The west network area on Sendener Straße also draws the eyes with an extraordinary DJ pig on a mixer. This work of art, which deals with its playful design in a creative way, focuses on the functionality of the party and event rooms, complements the exhibition with lively, festive elements. Finally, visitors can observe two large cows that have taken a seat at a counter with huge beer mugs. This amusing scenery, including dancing pigs, gives the square a happy atmosphere and invites you to linger.

art and culture in public space

The creation of such works of art in public space has a long tradition and can be traced back to historical statues or fountains that have been an integral part of cities and villages for centuries. The variety ranges from classic representations to modern installations, as in Wikipedia

The influence of art in public space also extends to local identity. In recent decades, the perception of art within urban structures has changed. Artistic projects are no longer just jewelry from places, but often consist of targeted actions that trigger social discourses and promote the feeling of community.

The artist Melanie Richet and her passion for straw markettery

Another aspect of the art scene is the work of the artist Melanie Richet, who specializes in straw markettery. According to her profile on Richet.de she critically questions mass consumption and relies on sustainable and conscious shopping methods. Richet uses her craftsmanship to create moments of the beautiful and has discovered her passion for working with straw in workshops in Paris.

The artist operates a workshop in Schweinfurt, Germany, and is one of the few in Germany that dominates this technology. Their priorities are due to the production of jewelry and braided vessels. It also colored straw with natural colors and has also learned the rare bumper wrap technology. This elaborate method, which is hardly widespread in Europe, shows the dedication of Richets on the art and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.

One of her braided vessels was even nominated for the Hessian State Prize for the German handicrafts in 2024, which underlines the quality and unique character of their work.

Overall, the new installations in Lüdinghausen and Melanie Richet's work reflect the diversity and depth of contemporary art that enliven public space and at the same time stimulate thinking about our environment and way of life.