When it comes to experiencing the vibrant street art scene in Berlin, one destination stands out: the East Side Gallery. This place that showcases a collection of murals is not only eye pleasing to the eye, but also an example of history of Berlin and the impact art in its many forms can have. In the course of this article, we will embark you on a virtual journey through the East Side Gallery understanding its historical background, role, and amazing murals.
1. The Details of the Origin of the East Side Gallery
The monument to be found on the East Side Gallery has a great historical significance because the East Side Gallery is part of the Berlin Wall and represents the division of the city in the period of the Cold War. Since the demolition of the wall in 1989 the section of the wall was painted by artists from around the globe transforming the section into one of the biggest pieces of wall art of the world.
With a length of one point three kilometers, the gallery was proclaimed the longest open-air one and was inaugurated on September 28th, 1990. Modern people can recall it as the symbol of freedom and union, visiting millions of tourists every year.
2. Exploring the Artworks
Get ready to be calm and enthralled when you are parading along side the East Side Gallery and observe stunning masterpieces painted by artist from all over the world. Every mural has its own concept and signature and they cover different topics such as liberty or political messages, as well as social cause.
2.1 “The Kiss” by Dmitry Vrubel
Perhaps one of the most common murals of the East Side Gallery is contamination of Russian artist Dmitry Vrubel’s ‘The Kiss’. This rather famous painting shows the Soviet chief Leonid Brezhnev kissing the shoulder of East German chief Erich Honecker. The East Side Gallery is now a Berlin symbol of the reunification of Germany as a strong whole.
2.2 Test the Rest by Birgit Kinder
Another work of art that should also be discussed is Birgit Kinder’s “Test the Rest”. The bright colored mural captures the scene of a Trabant car, a representation of east Germany, bursting a wall. It signifying spirit of freedom and tenacity of people of Berlin.
2.3 “Fatherland” by Kim Prisu
The analysis of Kim Prisu’s sculpture “Fatherland” gives evidence of the bewildering split reality in two Berlins during the Cold War period. Published together with the artwork depicted in the mural, there is a man with two heads, one of which looks backward, while the second looks forward. This they say, represent the spirit and aspirations of a single German nation.
3. Tips for Your Visit
Now that you’re inspired to explore the East Side Gallery, here are some tips to make the most out of your visit:
3.1 Plan Your Visit
For crowded places such as the East Side Gallery it is recommended that one visits during the weekdays, early morning. It being one of the most famous galleries in the world, tourists can get a better look if they get there during the early hours of the day.
3.2 Wear Comfortable Shoes
It does take time to walk the entire East Side Gallery length so make sure to comfortable footwear is worn at the very least. It will thus be possible for you to make this experience a comfortable one for yourself.
3.3 Bring a Camera
Do not leave your camera or smartphone at home just in case you capture the excellent art piece. The East Side Gallery is a perfect place to take as many truly Instagrammable pictures as you want.
3.4 Respect the Artworks
For one, people would love to touch or even scribble on the artworks they admire, however one must have to bear in mind that the East Side Gallery is a cultural site. It is important to honor the artists that created the art pieces and the messages that they bore by not vandali-zing or scrubbing off the art.
4. Reflecting on the Message
Leaving from the East Side Gallery, you can’t help but immerse yourself into the meaning of each work of art that covers the long wall. Along with works of art, the gallery portrays the list of people who suffered during the Nazi occupation and still dreamed of freedom.
As an art enthusiast or just an art loving history book, the East Side Gallery in Berlin is something that will stay in your soul. This moving tribute to the lives lost brings together bright colors, socially significant stories, and the enthusiastic community spirit.
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