Two large-scale graffiti murals have been installed on bridge abutments along Münsterstraße in Hamm's Lippeaue recreation area, featuring artwork that highlights both the natural environment and recreational opportunities available in the space. The Münster-based company Lackaffen completed the latest mural, adding to their previous work in the area with new imagery depicting various outdoor activities.
The murals serve as an official response to illegal graffiti that had previously covered the north and south walls of the Münsterstraße bridge overpass, which leads into the newly created floodplain park area. While illegal graffiti often creates problems in many locations, the city decided to commission professional artwork to transform these surfaces into something meaningful and visually appealing.
Lackaffen first worked on the northern bridge abutment in 2022, according to city officials, creating artwork featuring various wildlife species including beavers, kingfishers, and white storks. These animals represent the wildlife that conservation efforts in the area aim to promote and protect. The imagery emphasizes the natural habitat restoration goals of the Lippeaue project.
In September, the company completed work on the southern bridge abutment, focusing on human recreational activities available in the floodplain park. The new mural depicts people engaged in jogging, cycling, disc golf, and bouldering (rock climbing), showcasing the diverse recreational opportunities that visitors can enjoy in the space.
According to city representatives, the two decorated bridge abutments symbolically represent the dual objectives of the Lippeaue project. On one hand, the initiative aims to create natural habitats for wildlife, while on the other hand, it seeks to develop spaces that people can actively use and enjoy. The goal is to visually communicate these two major project objectives to visitors as they enter the recreation area.
The total cost for the graffiti project was approximately 10,000 euros net, according to city officials. This investment represents part of the broader effort to enhance the visual appeal and educational value of the recreation space.
The Lippeaue recreation area itself was developed through a multi-million euro collaboration between the Lippe Association and the city of Hamm. The space now occupies an area that was originally designated for the Lippesee lake project. Visitors can access the recreation area from both Münsterstraße and Fährstraße, making it easily accessible for residents and tourists looking to enjoy both the natural environment and recreational facilities.
