A Lasting Reminder

When the Berlin Wall started to come down at the end of 1989, many worried that the entire Wall would be removed, leaving no trace of its existence or what it represented.

In response, a few artists (from Scotland) called out to artists from around the world to meet and undertake a massive art installation on a large section of the Wall.

And so they met.  And they painted.

These paintings ensured the preservation of this long section of the Wall which now comprises the East Side Gallery Berlin.  The Wall showcases 105 different paintings, which express thoughts about the Wall, its role in the city and its impact around the World.

The East Side Gallery of the Wall is considered the largest and longest open-air gallery in the World and is located in Kreuzburg, along the Spree River.

Sadly, much of the artwork has been vandalized over the years, with many pieces completely destroyed.

There has been an attempted restoration, but this has been met with conflict.  Many of the artists are upset that part of the Wall was moved to facilitate the building of new condos and other development, and thus refuse to either participate in repainting their works or letting anyone else update them.

As such, the Wall now represents a new tension - between the artists and business people.