The Public Bench is a typical work by German conceptual artist Jochen Gerz which involves the relationship between art and life, between history and memory. The wall behind the bench is decorated with plaques celebrating personal friendships, placed there by thousands of local people.

Gerz has explored many different artistic disciplines and diverse media including text, photography, video, installation, performance, public authorship pieces and processes. At the heart of his practice is the search for an art form that can contribute to public affairs and democracy. He deals with concepts such as culture, society, public space, participation and public authorship.

For information about the sculptor see this page.