Trompe-l’œil

In the charming city of Zug, Switzerland, lies an extraordinary work of art that mesmerizes both locals and visitors alike. This unique masterpiece, known as the Trompe-l’œil, is a 112-meter-long color field painting created by the talented artist Maria Bettina Cogliatti in 1998. Nestled along the serene Katastrophenbucht (Disaster Bay), this vivid mural transforms a simple concrete wall into an optical illusion of vibrant life and movement.

The Artistic Vision

Maria Bettina Cogliatti's Trompe-l’œil is a stunning example of how art can breathe new life into urban spaces. Painted with acrylics on the concrete wall of the Vorstadtbrücke, the mural features a harmonious blend of warm and cool color fields. The artist juxtaposed three warm and two cool color fields (or vice versa), creating a dynamic contrast that captivates the eye. The 21 different hues transition from warm yellow-orange near the Vorstadtquai to rich purples, greens, and reds, finally fading into a cool blue towards the Alpenquai. This gradient effect simulates the progression of a day, from the warm glow of morning to the cool tranquility of evening.

An Illusion of Space

Cogliatti's Trompe-l’œil goes beyond mere color play. The artist skillfully arranged the color fields to create the illusion of interruptions, niches, and windows in the otherwise flat wall. This clever arrangement gives the impression of an imaginary living space, a colorful city that invites viewers to step into a world of fantasy. The mural not only complements the vibrant colors of the nearby Vorstadthäuser (suburban houses) but also revives the memory of a once-thriving row of houses that sank into the lake in 1887.

A Journey Through Time

The history of the Trompe-l’œil is as fascinating as the artwork itself. In the 1970s, the concrete wall was originally painted by Hans Potthof and a group of children. However, the mural suffered repeated damage over the years. In 1995, under the guidance of Cogliatti and commissioned by the Zug School and Urban Development Office, 55 children repainted the wall with a theme of Living, using predominantly blue tones as a nod to the submerged houses. Despite these efforts, the mural was once again defaced, prompting the city to commission Cogliatti to create a new design in 1998.

The Making of a Masterpiece

With the help of a professional painter and over 140 hours of meticulous work, Cogliatti brought her sculptural and chromatic visions to life. Her goal was to use painterly techniques to create the illusion of a third dimension, hence the name Trompe-l’œil, which means deceive the eye. The artist successfully broke the dominance of the window openings in the wall, transforming it into a vibrant and engaging piece of public art. The Trompe-l’œil was completed in early August 1998 and has since become a beloved landmark in Zug.

A Restored Gem

In 2017, the Trompe-l’œil underwent restoration to preserve its beauty and vibrancy for future generations. The mural has also inspired a series of paintings and drawings by Cogliatti, further cementing its place in the artist's oeuvre. Today, the Trompe-l’œil stands as a testament to the power of art to transform public spaces and evoke a sense of wonder and imagination.

Exploring the Trompe-l’œil

Visitors to Zug should not miss the opportunity to experience the Trompe-l’œil in person. As you stroll along the Katastrophenbucht, take a moment to appreciate the intricate play of colors and the illusion of depth that Cogliatti has masterfully created. The mural's vibrant reflections on hot days create an aquarium-like atmosphere, adding to the sense of immersion in this imaginative world. The progression of colors throughout the day offers a constantly changing visual experience, making each visit unique.

In conclusion, the Trompe-l’œil in Zug is more than just a mural; it is a celebration of color, imagination, and the transformative power of art. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and picturesque spot to explore, the Trompe-l’œil promises to enchant and inspire. So, take a leisurely walk along the Katastrophenbucht, let your eyes be deceived, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Maria Bettina Cogliatti's Trompe-l’œil.