-
![]()
Lookinout
The space around the monument and its usageAs early as 1986, Betina Kuntzsch would have had some alternatives for the monument: heroes or heroines with a human face – Rosa Luxemburg in a huge flower garden or Sigmund Jähn, the first German in space.
-
![]()
Head Fist Flag
A Thälmann monument – three years before the fall of the WallErnst Thälmann had moved the masses during the Weimar Republic. He failed to bring about the “victory of communism”.
-
![]()
Gasometer
The Triple Colosseum of Prenzlauer BergWhen the decision to build Ernst Thälmann Park was made in 1981, things were starting to simmer in the capital of the GDR. Resistance developed against the planned demolition of the former gasworks.
-
![]()
Noble Prefabs
In July 1984, the first tenants moved into the Thälmann-ParkHardy Krause was one of the very first residents of Ernst Thälmann Park. As a passionate amateur photographer, he sneaked onto the construction site, photographed excavators and trenches.
-
![]()
Evermore
A lyrical interludeHelplessness rubs along the surface. Dark foreboding. The snow alone makes the monument look fresh, perhaps even friendly for a moment.
-
![]()
The coal palm
Vineyards – gasworks – ThälmannparkShort detour to the actual industrial age. The history of the “IV Berlin Gas Facility” in the district of Prenzlauer Berg, where vineyards and windmills had once stood.
-
![]()
Flake
Growing up and everyday life in Prenzlauer BergBlack snow in summer. Seen through a child’s eyes, it’s just as beautiful falling from the sky as the white flakes in winter. The black snow was emitted by the gasworks.
-
![]()
I spy with my little eye
In 1986 the monument is unveiledInauguration of Ernst Thälmann Park. Hands are raised in greeting in the square and on the balconies of the new high-rise buildings. An army of little waving cats; though none look very jolly or cheerful.
-
![Prologue]()
Prologue
The wrecking balls had grown weary. After the fall of the Wall, they had razed so many heroes of socialism. In 1993, Thälmann was due to be removed as well.
