New studio by Half-Dombach combines green space, art, and power

In the picturesque town of Bergisch Gladbach, nestled amongst meadows and cows, a historic half-timbered house from the 17th century has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. The Ateliergemeinschaft Halfen Dombach, a shared space for three artists and one artist, is set to open its doors to the public on the 6th and 7th of September 2025.

The sculptors Petra Zieriacks and Brigitte Maxrath-Enger, along with their colleagues, initiated this creative endeavour back in 2017, following a part-time further education in Alfter. Since January 2024, they have been tenants of the property, which was purchased by Markus Hetzenegger, a Sander merchant, after the landlord's demise.

The old vegetable garden at the property has been metamorphosed into a sculpture garden, blooming with herbs and wildflowers. Visitors can expect a variety of sculptures, including Maxrath-Enger's emotional granite rock piece from Lavik, Norway, titled "Emotions."

The attic of the atelier house serves as an artist residency. The Georgian artist Lana Bliadze was the most recent resident. The International Artist in Residence Program at Atelierhaus Halfen Dombach in 2026 is funded through a cooperation between local artists, cultural organizations, municipal authorities of Bergisch Gladbach, and private sponsors.

Watercolor artist Annett Coumont, known for her captivating Bergisch landscapes and international competition victories, including the IWS prize, is also part of this creative collective.

The sculpture park at the Ateliergemeinschaft Halfen Dombach will be accessible by appointment for visitors after the opening days. During the opening, Andreas Veitschegger, an illustrator and the founder of the international youth art group Bergisch Gladbach, will offer a cartoon workshop for children and young people.

The Atelier Community Maxrath-Zieriacks is planning regular events for music, film screenings, and workshops, and is open to various requests. Access to the Ateliergemeinschaft Halfen Dombach is possible via Kürtener Straße up to the construction site, with parking spaces available.

For those eager to learn more about the artists, their websites can be found for Brigitte Maxrath-Enger, Petra Zieriacks, Annett Coumont, and Andreas Veitschegger. The Atelier Community Maxrath-Zieriacks will also open a small sculpture garden in Sand this weekend.

The opening of the Ateliergemeinschaft Halfen Dombach marks a significant milestone in the artistic landscape of Bergisch Gladbach. From 10 am to 6 pm on the 6th and 7th of September 2025, the community invites everyone to explore their creative space, engage with the artists, and appreciate the beautiful fusion of art and nature.