Mark Jenkins Public Art Installation at Rümelinsplatz in Basel
Experiencing Urban Art by Artstübli at Rümelinsplatz
A striking public art project has transformed a prominent wall near Rümelinsplatz, catching the attention of passersby with its blend of surprise and dark humor. Brought to the city on the initiative of the local urban-art platform Artstübli, the new installation features hyperrealistic human figures suspended mid-climb.
The figures—dressed in beige trousers and grey hoodies pulled over their faces—hang motionless against a reinforced support structure where Gerbergässlein meets Rümelinsplatz. The composition depicts two men in a precarious climbing scenario: one figure reaches out to the other below, yet simultaneously stands on his hands. This paradoxical action shifts the perceived gesture from mutual assistance to a clumsy or subversive struggle.
Since appearing on the facade, the lifelike sculptures have quickly become a focal point for the streetscape. Visitors and locals navigating the square frequently pause to observe the scene, moving from initial confusion to amusement. Many stop to capture photographs of the unusual figures. For further details on local media coverage of the intervention, you can view the BZ Beitrag from 20.09.23.
To discover more contemporary works and public projects across the city, you can explore the Musemap (musemap.art) guide to what's on exhibitions and the interactive map view.
