A comprehensive retrospective exhibition titled "Colorful Diversity" opened at the 4Fachwerk Museum on Mittelstraße, showcasing the artistic legacy of Marlies Forneberg, a talented artist from Büschergrund who passed away in May 2023 at the age of 74. The exhibition, which runs until January 11, 2026, features an extensive collection of works spanning the artist's entire creative journey from 1949 to 2023.
The opening ceremony drew a capacity crowd, with every seat filled for the vernissage, demonstrating the special appreciation and respect the community held for Forneberg's artistic contributions. Klaus Siebel-Späth, chairman of 4Fachwerk, welcomed attendees and emphasized the exhibition's purpose: "With this exhibition, we want to remember the life and work of Marlies Forneberg." He extended warm greetings to her daughter Sonja, longtime friend Claudia Kritzler, and Ulrich Langenbach, who provided Forneberg with her own studio space at his art center in Geisweid from 2009 to 2023.
Dieter Siebel delivered a heartfelt and engaging presentation about Forneberg's artistic development, having been one of her earliest supporters and witnesses to her creative evolution. "I was privileged to be one of the first to see her paintings and immediately recognized her unique talent for art," he shared with the audience. He traced the various stages of her artistic growth and highlighted the significant influence of the studio community in Geisweid on her work. Siebel noted how her artistic vision expanded over time: "Her eyes came to see much further than just representational subjects. I took great joy in the artistic partnership between Langenbach and Forneberg."
The tributes extended beyond Forneberg's artistic achievements, recognizing her as much more than just a creative artist. Speakers emphasized that "she was a hands-on person when it came to concrete projects and initiatives." As a founding member, she helped establish the KulturFlecken cultural initiative in 2003 and was actively involved from the beginning in Freudenberg's popular walkable advent calendar project, demonstrating her commitment to community cultural development.
Curator Ulrike David expressed gratitude for successfully obtaining works from numerous lenders, making possible what she described as "likely the most comprehensive exhibition of Marlies Forneberg's work currently on display, showing the full range of her artistic creation and creative development." The exhibition encompasses various mediums including painting and graphics, featuring both vibrant, colorful works and concentrated black-and-white compositions, alongside several sculptural pieces. "The title 'Colorful Diversity' fits absolutely perfectly," David noted, explaining how Forneberg courageously approached new artistic challenges, experimented with different techniques, and grew through the tasks she set for herself.
The opening evening featured special musical accompaniment by Ulrich van der Schoor, who performed songs about love and passion on piano, creating an atmosphere that reflected the enthusiasm and dedication required of artists in their creative work. Many art enthusiasts stayed well into the evening, engaging in conversations and sharing memories of Marlies Forneberg. The "Colorful Diversity" exhibition will remain on display at the 4Fachwerk Museum until January 11, 2026, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the complete artistic journey of this beloved local artist.
