Science & Art - New mural brings TRR 181 research into the public space

A new mural has been painted at Bundesstraße 32 in Hamburg. From now on, pedestrians in the Grindelviertel can see the artwork on a house wall near the University’s campus on Bundesstraße. Measuring approximately 10 × 18 meters, the mural shows a representative section of the ocean and atmosphere. The arrows in the mural symbolize the processes and energy flows in water and air that are being investigated in the project. In the background, a female scientist is working on new research findings. Measuring instruments and research vessels illustrate the practical part of the research. The sailing boat represents the connection between science and the public. 

Created together with the internationally active Berlin-based artist collective Innerfields, the mural makes the work of TRR 181 visible in the public space. Through its artistic language, it brings research into dialogue with society, aiming to draw attention to the importance of climate science on a direct and emotional level. Five researchers from the University of Hamburg and Geomar were involved in this project. 

“Science uses an objective approach to discover the world and explore it, while art takes a subjective approach that communicates through emotions - creating an individual connection with the audience. That is what makes this collaboration special for the mural: it also challenges us as researchers to explain our work to the artists in simple words,” says Prof. Dr. Carsten Eden, oceanographer and spokesperson for the collaborative research project.  

The wall where the mural is located was provided by a private house owner. According to Prof. Dr. Eden, the proximity to the climate campus on Bundesstraße creates a visual link between laboratories and offices and the cityscape: “We are very happy that we were able to realize this artwork in our neighborhood, and that, thanks to the agreement, it will be on view not only temporarily, but for at least the duration of the project.”  

The mural is part of the “Art & Science” initiative within the collaborative research project TRR 181, “Energy Transfers in Atmosphere and Ocean.” Its 18 scientific subprojects are complemented by Art & Science, which has produced 15 artworks since 2020. An exhibition of these works is planned to tour from 2028.