An important chapter in Leipzig's city history will soon be a multi-faceted page poorer: The colorful fresco by Michael Fischer-Art, which has adorned the walls on Brühl for many years and reminded of the peaceful revolution of 1989, will no longer be on display. After a dispute over the future use of the building, it was decided to remove the work of art.
The fresco, which occupies a central place in Leipzig's culture of remembrance, was not only a work of art, but also a symbol of the freedom and courage of the people who fought for unity and democracy. In his work, Fischer-Art himself has processed personal experiences from the time of change and thus created a direct connection to the history of the city. The vivid colors and impressive motifs have touched many visitors and passers-by and made them think.
The decision to remove the fresco is part of a larger conflict over the use of the area on which the work of art can be found. A new investor is planning to rebuild the building, and the new wall will completely obscure the fresco. Fischer-Art himself has already removed and sold parts of the painting in order to save it from permanent disappearance. In an interview, he explained that the decision to remove the image affected him deeply, as it was not only art but also part of his identity and memories.
The loss of the fresco is not only a setback for the art scene in Leipzig, but also for the city's culture of remembrance. Many people have an emotional connection to this mural, which has shaped generations. It became a place of reflection on the events of 1989 and the meaning of freedom. In school classes, it was often used as an illustrative example of German unity.
The disappearance of Michael Fischer-Art's fresco on Brühl is a painful loss for Leipzig and its citizens. It reminds us how important it is to preserve cultural heritage and to keep the stories that connect us visible in public spaces. But hope remains that the city will learn from this experience and treat future works of art and monuments with the necessary respect.
With the “Freedom of Art” project, the memory of the fresco is intended to live on. Parts of the work of art are sold so that all those who feel connected can preserve a piece of this story — a symbol of the courage, change and spirit of Leipzig, which affects us all.
Hand-picked reversible image fragments on elegant aluminum plates in various formats.