Friedhelm Zilly

An apprenticeship as a surveyor, studies at the Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences, and many years of work as a surveying engineer—these biographical details certainly don't suggest the career of a successful sculptor. But even at an early age, he also demonstrated a fascination for philosophy, literature, and the visual arts.

Friedhelm Zilly drew, painted, and sculpted during his school and university years. In 1980, he set up his studio near Radolfzell. A good 30 of his bronze sculptures and fountains are now present in public spaces, primarily in southern Germany, but also in France, Austria, and Ireland. His works include a Hermann Hesse sculpture in Gaienhofen, the poet's long-time residence, and "Knulp," a famous character from Hesse's fictional works, in Hesse's birthplace of Calw.