Letter N – DYR – Freedom and Pop Art in an Urban Context
Teufelsberg, a symbol of Berlin’s cultural diversity, serves as a unique canvas for artists to express their messages in remarkable ways. One such artist is Damian Yves Rohde, better known as DYR, whose contribution to the #FreiheitBerlin installation reflects his distinct style and creative vision.
“Glitch Bitch”: A Statement on Freedom and Diversity
The letter “N” in the #FreiheitBerlin installation, titled Glitch Bitch, embodies DYR’s interpretation of freedom. For him, freedom means the ability to “do and say what you want, as long as you don’t harm anyone. It’s a foundation, a basis where people don’t have to agree but can present their views and argue in a respectful way.” His work emphasizes respect for gender, religion, clothing, and lifestyle—independent of personal preferences.
The design of the “N” stands out with its vibrant colours, bold contrasts, and dynamic forms. The faces depicted, characteristic of DYR’s style, exude energy and emotion. The bright colour accents and glitch-inspired patterns in the background lend the piece a modern, digital aesthetic that is both playful and socially relevant. This fusion of pop art and social commentary makes Glitch Bitch a perfect representation of freedom within the Berlin context.
As DYR explains: “Berlin is a place where anyone can walk around as they please and say what they want, as long as they remain respectful.” This essence of tolerance and individuality shines through in his work.
From West Berlin to International Recognition
Born in 1985 in West Berlin, Damian Yves Rohde grew up in a multicultural environment that deeply influenced his artistic journey. Raised in the vibrant Kreuzberg and Schöneberg art scenes, he was surrounded by budding and established artists, which fostered his early passion for art. The graffiti culture on the Berlin Wall and exhibitions he attended further shaped his creative development.
Since 2020, DYR has leaned further into pop art, developing a unique style. He abstracts faces from his close circle, reducing them to essential features while maintaining their recognizability. His work is both deeply personal and universally relatable, earning him recognition not just in Berlin but also internationally, with exhibitions in Paris, London, and other cities.
Between Wildness and Individuality
In addition to his contribution to the #FreiheitBerlin installation, DYR created another remarkable piece in the Gallery Tower at Teufelsberg. This mural combines human and animal elements in a dynamic display of his pop art aesthetic.
At the centre of the mural is a stylized bear’s head, complete with bright orange sunglasses and a wide-open mouth showcasing sharp teeth. The bear is simultaneously aggressive and playful, symbolizing Berlin’s untamed energy, wrapped in a modern cultural vibe.
Flanking the bear are two abstracted human figures, crafted in the same distinctive style as the faces on the letter “N.” Their vibrant colours, striking facial features, and playful accessories demonstrate DYR’s unique interpretation of individuality and diversity. The connection between the mural and the “N” underscores DYR’s consistent artistic identity, weaving a recognizable thread through his works.
The mural’s background features deep, rich tones that enhance the boldness of the figures and the bear, creating a striking visual impact. This stylistic continuity between the letter and the mural showcases how DYR translates his signature approach across different formats, while still telling new stories.