Berlin: East Side Gallery Gong Show
Whenever I tell people we went to Berlin, they always ask what I thought of the Berlin Wall fragments and the East Side Gallery (ESG). Berlin’s East Side Gallery is a 1.3 km long section of the Berlin Wall that has been preserved as an international memorial celebrating freedom. It is the longest open-air gallery in the world.
This is the most famous artwork at the ESG...it is not the original. Link: The Stolen Kiss
Must See?
Immediately after the wall came down, in November 1989, hundreds of artists began painting sections of the wall in celebration of their newfound freedom. The East Side Gallery opened as an open-air gallery on September 28, 1990 featuring the work of 118 artists from 21 different countries. Today, the wall continues to feature the work of street artists and muralists from around the world.
Given my interest in graffiti and street art since the mid ‘80s, this was a “must see” for me. Perhaps my expectations were too high as it was probably the biggest disappointment of my 6-week stay in Berlin.
In a city filled with street art, I was expecting artwork that was provocative, poignant, politically charged. Though some pieces were well executed, most were mediocre, messy and moronic.
In addition, the area has become a tacky tourist trap with tour groups, buskers, cheesy souvenirs and stupid selfie sticks. It was a gong show.
The East Side Gallery gong show of people, clutter, construction and fences is not a great experience - IMHO!.
In a city filled with street art, I was expecting artwork that was provocative, poignant, politically charged. Though some pieces were well executed, most were mediocre, messy and moronic.
In addition, the area has become a tacky tourist trap with tour groups, buskers, cheesy souvenirs and stupid selfie sticks. It was a gong show.
Tourists are more interested in selfies than looking at the art. Perhaps you can't blame them when you have to look through a fence to see the art.
Last Word
Is it only me or does everyone see the irony that the East Side Gallery a remnant of the Berlin Wall which is suppose to be a memorial to freedom actually has a fence around it to protect it from vandals.
Checkout this photo essay from ESG and let me know what you think or the art and the sense of place.
The ESG is a popular spot for professional photographers and models.
Across the street is a very loud construction site.
So what do you think?
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