Annette von der Bey

The work Turmbau has been in the making since 1989. The subject draws on the biblical story of the Tower of Babel and quotes art-historical models, in particular that of Pieter Brueghel I.
Turmbau is a never-ending work extendable in all directions and consisting of oil paintings on canvas each measuring 20 cm x 30 cm. Each painting is unique and stands in its own right as a painting irrespective of the composite whole. However, as in a puzzle, each part has its specific place in the pictorial whole and this is noted by a number on the reverse.
Since 1989, more than 600 units have come about, forming together an ensemble of over 12 m width and, at the highest point, over 9 m high.
Turmbau is a conceptual work capable of orchestrating interior spaces of the widest range.To do so it may be hung differently from the original overall composition.