MACHAS

Exploring Aalborg’s Botanical Tapestry: The Garden of Alabu by Agostino Iacurci

Agostino Iacurci’s multidisciplinary practice, characterized by a site-specific approach and a penchant for storytelling, breathes new life into the urban landscape of Aalborg.

Nestled within the Kent building in Aalborg’s Østre Havn district in Denmark, Agostino Iacurci’s mural lies a captivating tribute to the city’s natural heritage. Entitled “The Garden of Alabu”, the site-specific mural painting serves as a vibrant ode to Aalborg’s botanical legacy, intricately weaving together art, nature, and history.

Drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape, Iacurci collaborated with nature guide Esben Buch and landscape architect Karen Luise Winther Høgsbro to meticulously select six indigenous plants for his motif. From the graceful Hemp deer’s comforter to the vibrant Yellow iris, each plant was carefully chosen to reflect the unique flora that flourishes in the vicinity of Østre Havn.

As one navigates through the Kent building, “The Garden of Alabu” emerges as a supporting element, seamlessly integrated into the architectural framework. Viewers are invited to embark on a sensory journey, experiencing the artwork up close from the sculptural steel staircase leading to the Sky Lounge on the top floor.
Here, amidst the building’s sleek lines and modern aesthetics, Iacurci’s mural serves as a vibrant focal point, captivating the imagination and igniting a deeper appreciation for Aalborg’s natural surroundings.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the title “The Garden of Alabu” carries profound historical significance, invoking the city’s origins and enduring connection to the fjord. Rooted in the earliest coins struck in 1035, the name Alabu—derived from Aalabur—serves as a poignant reminder of Aalborg’s rich cultural heritage and deep-seated ties to the land.

Through “The Garden of Alabu,” Iacurci celebrates the beauty of nature and invites viewers to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, where art, architecture, and history converge in a harmonious symphony of creativity.

See more of Agostino Iacurci’s work here.