During the industrial era, a vast network of tunnels and mines was dug deep underground, criss-crossing the Terres Rouges from end to end, on several levels, even crossing the border, to link factories and steel production sites. Today, access to these underground passages is closed. Trees and shrubs hide the entrances; nature has reclaimed its rights in this landscape shaped by humans. The mining infrastructure beneath our feet, which has become obsolete over time, is less and less visible, until it disappears from our imagination.
The ARBED tunnel between Rumelange (Laangegronn) and Esch-sur-Alzette (Burbacherlach) is no exception. Originally used as an ore transport route, it later housed a local analog TV antenna cable. Since the switch to digital, the tunnel's function as a transport vessel has been discontinued. "Useless" and abandoned, it continues nevertheless to attract the interest of urbex enthusiasts keen on clandestine mining exploration and is home to several species of bats.
For artist Serge Ecker, the ARBED tunnel embodies the rich and complex overlay of the region's industrial history and its transformation into the digital age. The different strata of history, sociology, ecology, and geology come together in the work Passages, which he created for Elektron's inaugural exhibition CYBER STRUCTURES: Material Realities - Digital Experiences.
Using 3D scanning technologies, Serge Ecker was able to capture the entire 1,800-meter-long tunnel. The data collected in this way forms the basis for creating a 3D-printed sculpture. However, the use of these technologies is part of an approach that goes beyond the simple visual preservation of the tunnel. They also allow us to bear witness to the evolution of this space over time, reintegrating it into our collective memory.
In collaboration with Bridderhaus.
With the generous support of the Œuvre Nationale de Secours Grande-Duchesse Charlotte.
With the kind support of the Commune de Rumelange, ArcelorMittal Luxembourg and the Musée National des Mines de Fer Luxembourgeoises.
As part of the Biennale 2024 Architectures - Esch Capitale Culturelle.
