“Wer kämpft, kann verlieren; wer nicht kämpft, hat schon verloren”. This powerful quote from Brecht is etched on a cast-iron plate. It stands before the Zur Schicht Sculpture. The statue serves as a stark reminder of Bremen’s working-class history. The Zur Schicht Sculpture stands tall in Gröpelingen. It is at the corner of Lindenhofstraße and Dockstraße. It is a bronze sculpture created in 1983 by Waldemar Otto.
Otto’s artistic presence is felt throughout Bremen. His other works include “Begegnung” in Vegesack and “Massensport” at the university. He also created “Großer Hephaistos II” and “Großer Bacchus II”. Bremen also features his “Neptunbrunnen” and “Agamemnon”.
Zur Schicht is a narrow, larger-than-life figure. It commemorates the AG Weser shipyard workers’ struggles in 1983. These workers gathered here. They demonstrated to save their shipyard. The sculpture marks a time of political strife.
When the workers ended their occupation, they placed the Brecht quote. They installed it in front of the artwork six months later. It encapsulated their spirit. The quote translates to “Who fights can lose; who does not fight has already lost”.
The Weser-Kurier aptly describes Zur Schicht. “The figure does not appear combative or heroic… Otto dispenses with any pathos. His realistic sculpture suits Gröpelingen”. The sculpture captures the essence of the working class. It avoids glorification. It reflects the reality of the times.
Waldemar Otto created a similar sculpture in Wilhelmshaven in 1982. It was placed on Marktstraße. Zur Schicht in Bremen stands as a symbol of resilience. It is a tribute to the workers’ fight for their livelihoods.
The Zur Schicht Sculpture is listed among Bremen’s monuments and statues. It serves as a historical marker. It reminds us of the city’s past. It echoes the voices of those who fought for their rights. It captures a significant chapter in Bremen’s story.
The Zur Schicht Sculpture stands as a testament to Bremen’s past. It embodies the spirit of those who dared to fight. It reminds us that even in defeat, there is dignity. The statue is a place to remember Bremen’s past.