„Tiger and Turtle – Magic Mountain“ is the work of art by the German pair Heike Mutter and Ulrich Genth. The impressive 21 metres high sculpture in German Duisburg standing on the top of a hill is a reaction to regional development. Visitors are welcome to walk on the roller-coaster like structure and are rewarded with an impressive view of the landscape from its apex 45 metres above the land level. The dynamic convolution of the structure has become a part of the scenery. Glinting from afar it creates an impression of rapid speed and acceleration. From up close, the view reveals an endless loopy and winding staircase. Even though the visitors are free to walk along the seemingly uninterrupted walkway, their path is halted with an upside-down loop, which poses a physical barrier.
Tiger and Turtle are an reference to the speed and deadlock in the situations of problem solving and changes. The wavy set of stairs symbolises the local land and leads one through a manual rollercoaster experience, but the impassable loop evokes an unpleasant feeling of helpessness. The visitor scales the steep and winding paths of the construction which is perhaps ironically toying with the contrast of the dynamic idea of a rollercoaster and the stasis of the sculpture itself. LED-lighting is integrated into the railing of the whole structure, enabling access in the night as well as highlighting the whole work of art.
Photo: pulson.ru
I was going to be disgusted and say that it ruined the view…..until I saw the view. Fantastic piece of work.