Right here stands Stele II. It is also known as the Berlin sculpture. It is located on Tauentzienstrasse in Berlin. The Berlin sculpture serves as a powerful reminder of Berlin’s history during the Cold War.
Let’s delve into the story of this iconic artwork. The Berlin sculpture came about to commemorate Berlin’s 750th anniversary in 1987. The city of West Berlin commissioned a group of artists to create sculptures for Kurfuerstendamm. Brigitte Matschinsky-Denninghoff and Martin Matschinsky created the Berlin sculpture.
The artists placed their creation near the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. This church was heavily damaged during the bombing of Berlin in World War II. The location adds another layer of meaning to the sculpture.
The Berlin sculpture consists of four chromed nickel steel tubes. They shoot up into the sky. The cylinders seem to be courting each other. Yet they never touch. This close proximity represents Berlin’s divided situation. From a certain angle the Berlin sculpture looks like a broken chain. Its links are severed. This symbolizes the division of East and West.
Just two years after the Berlin sculpture was created the Berlin Wall fell unexpectedly. Today the sculpture reminds us of that time. The surface of the tubes are covered by chrome nickel steel. They darken or shine depending on the time of day.
Brigitte Matschinsky-Denninghoff described the sculpture’s impact. She said the sculpture is accessible from all sides. The emphasis is on the direction West-East and East-West. She added that their sculpture is specifically designed as a big organically grown gate. It forms a double arch which is an invigorating emphasis. They tried to communicate something of Berlin’s situation in a symbolic way.
The Berlin sculpture is more than just art. It’s a symbol of a city divided and a nation reunited. It reminds us of the past. It also offers hope for the future. As you stand here take a moment to reflect on the history and meaning. The Berlin sculpture is a testament to the power of art.