The East Side Gallery in Berlin Germany is an exceptional case of an open air gallery located all along the 1.3kilometer wall. Various lively and stimulating paintings organised at the East Side Gallery and has made the location a symbol of unity, freedom and historiographic importance. In this article, the author will explore some history, importance and mind blowing art showcased at the East Side Gallery.
East Side Gallery & its Histories
The Berlin Wall commonly referred to was constructed in 1961, was specifically dividing East and West Berlin during the cold war period. This merged into symbol of division and repression which does not permit individuals to stay with their families, friends or compatriots. Nevertheless, after the changes in 1989, this place turned into an emblem of victory – the East Side Gallery. It was set up in 1990 to pay respect to freedom and designate a global symbol of unity and transition in art after the re-integration of East as well as West Berlin and Germany.
There is no better way to illustrate a whole nation’s artistic vision more than the East Side Gallery.
Today, the East Side Gallery can be regarded as the largest open air gallery in the world. As seen in this Wall today, over hundred artists of different styles, themes, and cultures painted on the ruins of the Wall. As such, the artworks given depict social messages, political statements, and creativity. Every painting is again a message, a message of the fight, dreams, and spirit of people who came before, who are now coming and will be coming in the future.
The 10 best murals on the East Side Gallery
Among the many incredible murals at the East Side Gallery, there are a few that have gained immense popularity due to their powerful imagery and historical significance:
Mural 1: Dmitri Vrubel ’s, “The Fraternal Kiss”
This is a mural of Leonid Brezhnev, the General Secretary of the Soviet Union, and Erich Honecker the General Secretary of the Socialist Unity Party of Germans’ socialist fraternal kiss. They are now carrying the message of unity, friendship and articulated desire for harmony among people of different countries.
Mural 2: “Hopping through the Wall” and Its author Birgit Kinder
This mural depicts a hope and joy which came with the fall of the Berlin Wall and illustrates it with a Trabant – a model of car produced in East Germany – drive through the Wall. This signifies the liberty and the joining of the two sectors of Germany.
Mural 3: ‘The Mortal Kiss’ – Sculptor, Dimitri Vrubel
Being obviously influenced by Kissing Video made by K.Dremoch with Brezhnev and Honecker in the same view but in a more passionate way with skeletons in the background present. The painting debates the price and outcome of sharp politicization and acts as the mournful message of the human casualties of the gap.
The Experience of the East Side Gallery
Anyone being drawn to Berlin as a tourist definitely needs to include the East Side Gallery on their list of ‘must-see’ attractions. Here are a few key tips to ensure you make the most of your experience:
Tip 1: Plan Your Visit
To find out more information about opening times and any possible events or shows, it is advised to consult the official site of the gallery before its visit. Going there early in the morning or during the weekdays will enable you avoid crowds because you can take time to appreciate the art.
Tip 2: Take Your Time
More to what the East Side Gallery displays, it is all vivid and it would only be unfair to run through the artwork and historical value of the wall. Make sure to read the information provided next to each mural, spend some time at each of them and get fascinated by their meaning.
Tip 3: Respect the Artwork
Always, keep in mind that the East Side Gallery is an active installation art. Do not try to touch the artwork or grab pieces that you see sharing the space with other people worth 50000. Smile! Photography is okay but remember not to trespass or block the way of others.
Conclusion
Nowadays, it is possible to visit the East Side Gallery that demonstrates eloquently how the Berlin Wall existed and how people finally won. Such a place has the purpose of making people think, ponder and treasure the spirit of togetherness. Here the observer takes part in a common history of people and receives a meaningful message giving power to art at the site of East Side Gallery. Thus, if you feel like being in Berlin, do not miss the great chance to meet this unique work of art.
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