The travemeise – For joy and color in life
For over four years, we've been exploring Lübeck's Old Town together. Behind many facades, history and creativity intertwine. Dedicated individuals are writing the story of our city in their own unique ways. I experienced this again this time while researching for Lübeck ZWISCHENZEILEN (Lüschenzeilen ZWISCHENZEILEN . We delve into the popular Hüxstraße and open the door to the shop and studio travemeise discover the passion project of its owner, Sybille Benedict-Rux
when life paths take new directions
The unusual name "travemeise" naturally evokes certain associations. In many cultures, the titmouse symbolizes lightness, curiosity, and joie de vivre. Its liveliness and ability to overcome difficult circumstances make it a symbol of adaptability and resilience. This perfectly describes Sybille Benedict-Rux. Even as a teenager, she knew that painting and creative work brought her joy, but after graduating from school, she initially pursued other paths in life, where—like a titmouse—she had to adapt and find inner strength. At first, she dreamed of dancing as a ballerina on the world's stages and consequently began dance training, for which she moved to Lübeck. This path came to an abrupt end when osteoarthritis of the knee changed her life.
Sybille had to make new plans and decided to study education, literature, and psychology. This was followed by many years working in the education sector. In the meantime, her family grew, and her passion from her younger years resurfaced: drawing, illustrating, and designing. She started an online shop and finally decided five years ago to offer her work in a physical store.
A home for art and soul
Bright, welcoming, and uncluttered – that's the impression Sybille Benedict-Rux's shop and studio gives off. The white-painted walls exude tranquility and allow space for what truly matters: the creative works, some of which are created and displayed here. Complemented by simple wooden furniture, the atmosphere remains pleasantly understated, ensuring the treasures take center stage. "This is meant to be a place of lightness," says Sybille – and the positive feedback from her customers confirms that her concept works.
The creative space has become a fixture for art lovers and those who aspire to be. Sybille offers a diverse portfolio of works, but her heart beats especially for watercolor painting. Patience and precision characterize this elaborate technique, in which a work of art emerges layer by layer – sometimes 30 to 40 delicate layers, each a meticulous step. "It's an intense process," she explains, "and sometimes I need a break to recharge." She uses these breaks to experiment with other materials, as she describes herself as a curious and playful person.
She rarely uses digital tools. For the creative owner of travemeise, working directly with her hands is an essential part of the creative process. "I love feeling the material, observing what develops from an initial idea, and sensing the soul of a small work of art," she says.
Art is beautiful, but it's a lot of work.
Karl Valentin
All the birds are already there
Sybille Benedict-Rux finds her inspiration time and again in nature – in her own garden, on walks, or by the sea. There she breathes deeply, takes photographs that serve as models for her work, and allows herself to be guided by the details of the world around her. For Sybille, nature is not just a subject, but also a place of profound connection: "It constantly reminds me that we are part of nature." This love for the environment is also reflected in her work.
Plants, insects, and especially birds, with their delicate grace, play a central role in her work. Thus, tits, robins, kingfishers, and others conjure not only a smile on customers' faces on greeting cards, calendars, mobiles, craft sheets, bags, coffee mugs, and magnets, but also a piece of nature into their hearts and everyday lives.
"Art is like a window into another world," explains the artist. And that's precisely what the Trave Ant is: a window that reveals how colorful and vibrant the world can be. Now, at the beginning of the year, when it's often still gray and dreary outside, it's doubly enjoyable to embark on this journey of color and discover the magic that life's little wonders hold.
