East Side Gallery Berlin is one of the most famous open-air art galleries in the world. It is located on the former Berlin Wall, in the Mitte district of the city. The gallery consists of 105 paintings by international artists from different countries, covering a total length of 1316 meters. It is the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall and is a popular tourist attraction.
History
The East Side Gallery was created in 1989 shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It was established by the artist Thierry Noir, who painted the first mural on the Wall. Since then, more than 100 artists from all over the world have painted the Wall, creating a unique open-air gallery. The gallery was officially opened in 1990 and is now one of the most visited attractions in Berlin.
The Paintings
The East Side Gallery is home to a variety of artwork, from political and social commentary to abstract and surrealistic pieces. Each painting has a unique message, ranging from the celebration of freedom and peace to criticism of the former East German regime. The most iconic painting is the “Fraternal Kiss”, a mural depicting Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and East German leader Erich Honecker sharing a kiss.
Restoration and Preservation
The East Side Gallery is constantly under threat from vandalism and neglect. To ensure its preservation, the East Side Gallery Foundation was established in 1998. The foundation is responsible for restoring and preserving the artwork and preventing further damage. In 2009, the East Side Gallery was designated as a protected historical monument.
Visiting the East Side Gallery
The East Side Gallery is open to the public and can be visited at any time. It is located near the Berlin Ostbahnhof train station and is easily accessible by public transport. Guided tours of the gallery are available, providing an opportunity to learn more about the artwork and its history. There is also a café and souvenir shop at the gallery.
Conclusion
The East Side Gallery is a unique open-air gallery and an important symbol of freedom and peace. It is a popular tourist attraction and is worth visiting for its art, history, and symbolism. The East Side Gallery Foundation is dedicated to preserving the artwork and ensuring its future.
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