Archdiocese Focuses on the Future of Europe’s Largest District Project with 32-Meter Art Installation
Munich, August 29, 2026 – The Archdiocese of Munich and Freising is taking a forward-looking approach to the development of Munich-Freiham, Europe’s largest district project, with the installation of a striking 32-meter-high, walkable metal sculpture. The art piece, titled “SICHTUNG V,” aims to foster dialogue among future residents about the pastoral and social future of their new community, which is expected to house 25,000 people.
“SICHTUNG V”: A Catalyst for Community Engagement
The sculpture, created by the artist duo Rasthofer/Neumaier, is scheduled for installation between September 1st and 4th. From October onwards, its interior will be accessible to the public through guided tours, following the training of volunteer guides. This temporary mobile space and sound installation will serve as a focal point for a year-long program of pastoral, artistic, and cultural events, organized by the Archdiocese and the Munich West parish association, in collaboration with other local partners.
Hildegard Rasthofer and Christian Neumaier’s modular and mobile sculpture “SICHTUNG V” is designed to encourage reflection on the future of the new development. The Archdiocese intends to use this platform to engage with residents about their social and religious needs, their relationships with each other, and their lives within the new district. The “SICHTUNG” series, previously exhibited at various locations, consists of several stacked steel cubes. The steps of the internal staircase produce sounds when walked upon, and window openings on each level offer ever-changing perspectives of the new district, neighboring areas, and the surrounding landscape.
Expanding Pastoral and Cultural Offerings
The sculpture will host an expanded program that complements the existing offerings of the Munich West parish association and other church-social institutions in Freiham. This initiative seeks to explore and develop new forms of church presence in Freiham, strengthen existing networks, and forge new relationships, all with the aim of fostering acquaintance, growth, and exchange within the community. The accompanying program is being planned and designed by the Munich West parish association, the Art and Urban Pastoral departments of the Archdiocesan Ordinariate of Munich, and local volunteers.
By 2027, the area will also see the addition of landscaping and a temporary event pavilion. These enhancements are intended to improve the quality of stay and provide further space for pastoral and cultural events. The long-term goal is to develop and establish a vibrant, needs-based pastoral presence in Freiham over the years.
The Artists: Rasthofer/Neumaier
Rasthofer/Neumaier is a German artist duo comprising architect Hildegard Rasthofer (born 1967) and metal sculptor and master blacksmith Christian Neumaier (born 1965). Under their joint label, they work interdisciplinarily on large-format, walkable sculptures and site-specific installations.
The initiative underscores the Archdiocese’s commitment to actively shaping the social and spiritual fabric of Munich-Freiham as it grows into a vibrant new urban center.
Source: https://samerbergernachrichten.de/kunstinstallation-zukunft-in-muenchen-freiham/
