--- title: "Beethoven banana by Bananensprayer" url: "https://www.cologne-tourism.com/arts-culture/sights/detail/beethoven-banana-by-bananensprayer" description: "Beethoven, one of the most influential composers of the 19th century, is not only being honoured musically in Cologne. To mark the 200th anniversary of the first performance of his Ninth Symphony in 2024, artist Thomas Baumgärtel placed a highly symbolic banana on the façade of the Cologne University of Music and Dance. This university, founded in 1845, attracts around 1550 students and is internationally renowned in its discipline.The university and its significanceWith state-of-the-art facilities such as rehearsal rooms, concert halls and dance studios, the university offers a stage for artistic excellence. Thomas Baumgärtel's Beethoven Banana honours this institution with a subtle work of art that reflects both the artistic spirit and the social contribution of the university. In Baumgärtel's works, the banana as a motif often stands for artistic honour, while at the same time drawing attention to the openness and creativity of the city of Cologne.A symbol of cultureBaumgärtel's installation is more than just a tribute to Beethoven; it embodies the connection between history and the present, between music and the visual arts. The use of the banana raises questions about the value and perception of art, but also addresses diversity and inclusion in the art scene. Here, art is not only exhibited, but experienced in dialogue, creating a space for reflection on art, culture and its role in society." language: "en" type: "Place" image: "https://dam.destination.one/2964110/f743909b7803227d28eca39d52d828eced72c83cedb1fda9040cd415b36610e1/beethoven-banana-by-thomas-baumg-rtel.jpg" breadcrumb: "Root > Homepage > Arts & Culture > Sights > Detail" --- Share Beethoven banana by Bananensprayer ================================== - street art/ art in public space Beethoven Banana by Thomas Baumgärtel Beethoven banana Ludwig van Beethoven as an urban art motif ------------------------------------------ Beethoven, one of the most influential composers of the 19th century, is not only being honoured musically in Cologne. To mark the 200th anniversary of the first performance of his Ninth Symphony in 2024, artist Thomas Baumgärtel placed a highly symbolic banana on the façade of the Cologne University of Music and Dance. This university, founded in 1845, attracts around 1550 students and is internationally renowned in its discipline. The university and its significance ----------------------------------- With state-of-the-art facilities such as rehearsal rooms, concert halls and dance studios, the university offers a stage for artistic excellence. Thomas Baumgärtel's Beethoven Banana honours this institution with a subtle work of art that reflects both the artistic spirit and the social contribution of the university. In Baumgärtel's works, the banana as a motif often stands for artistic honour, while at the same time drawing attention to the openness and creativity of the city of Cologne. A symbol of culture ------------------- Baumgärtel's installation is more than just a tribute to Beethoven; it embodies the connection between history and the present, between music and the visual arts. The use of the banana raises questions about the value and perception of art, but also addresses diversity and inclusion in the art scene. Here, art is not only exhibited, but experienced in dialogue, creating a space for reflection on art, culture and its role in society. Read more Useful Information ------------------ Eligibility - Suitable for any weather - for Groups - for individual guests - Suitable for the Elderly Payment methods Entrance Free Parking facilities You can easily reach the Dom/Hbf stop on tram lines 5, 16 and 18. From here it is about 700 metres to the Musikhochschule. Read more Our recommendations ------------------- View on map - street art/ art in public space - street art/ art in public space Nearby ------ View on map Contact Unter Kranenbäumen 87 50668 Köln