20357, a 3D piece of graffiti by Heiko Zahlmann, has been located in the Karolienen Square since 2009. A bird’s eye view of the piece allows one to recognize the postal code of the neighbourhood. From ground level it serves as a multifunctional and usable sculpture for residents and visitors.

Practically however, the sculpture is not intended for everyone as is made bluntly evident by the anti-skate nobs which were installed on the object. Skaters were deemed too loud, dangerous, annoying and inappropriate. And so the use of metal stoppers by the Municipality Mitte was an attempt to effectively deal with residents complaints. This was however done without the artist’s consultation or consent, and is clearly and directly a damage to the work.

Thus the anti-skate nobs were removed, and the original condition of the sculpture was restored. Skaters however continue to be refused the use of the supposedly freely accessable and public sculpture. The surrounding floor area of the artwork was so rebuilt in order to completely impede any skating.

But maybe not as well as it could…

Neues von .WAV.