Street-Art

Posts about “Street-Art” at the Teufelsberg Berlin.

Letter E – The Flowing World of FELIZ

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Berlin-based artist FELIZ has given the letter “E” in the #FreiheitBerlin installation his own distinctive touch. Known for his colorful and fluid compositions that blur the lines between nature, myths, and dreams, FELIZ creates works that reflect the depth and impermanence of our reality. Join us on a journey through FELIZ’s artistic world and discover how his visions and imagery enrich Teufelsberg.

Between Wings and Boundaries

FELIZ designed the “E” in the word “Freiheit” (Freedom) to express his deep understanding of this complex concept. For him, freedom is not something simply granted, but is tied to many questions: “What is freedom if it is limited to a select few? What is freedom if it is constrained by a singular view? What is freedom if it’s mine, but denied to you?” In times of global crises and injustice, where systematic oppression prevails, the fight for freedom and justice becomes even more urgent. Therefore, it is crucial to demand accountability for human rights violations while also promoting dialogue between different perspectives. As FELIZ states, “the living essence of freedom must be recognized as a collective pursuit.”

These reflections are embodied in his work, which is characterized by vibrant colors and flowing, organic forms—a symbol of life’s eternal flow. However, the central motif of the “E” is a bird, not flying freely, but wrapped in ribbons and seemingly trapped. The bird represents the longing for freedom but also the limitations often imposed from both outside and within. It becomes a symbol of the tension between the desire for liberation and the forces that restrict it. FELIZ’s work challenges us to ask how we can overcome these obstacles and achieve true freedom as a collective goal.

Flowing Art

Born in Berlin in 1988, FELIZ views art as the “aesthetic realization of life’s fleeting nature.” His works—whether murals, prints, or installations—are expressions of a never-ending flow, inspired by myths, dreams, and the collective unconscious. For him, it’s not about providing answers but about making questions visible: Where can we find the mysterious, the fleeting moments that reveal themselves only briefly? “Each of my works is an attempt to capture the transient nature of our reality,” says FELIZ. Regardless of the medium, the essence of his art remains the same: fluid, organic, and in constant transformation.

The Mystery of Sun and Wind

FELIZ is no stranger to Teufelsberg. In 2023, he created an impressive mural on the second floor of the tower, titled Who lights the sun? Who moves the wind? For him, the sun symbolizes knowledge, while the wind represents constant change. In the vastness of the universe, we recognize our own limits—but it is precisely these boundaries that inspire us to seek deeper understanding, even if the answers always remain incomplete.

“The sun hints at an eternal source illuminating the path of knowledge, while the wind whispers of the ceaseless flux governing all things. In the boundless expanse of the cosmos, we are humbled by our limitations, yet inspired by the unceasing journey toward understanding. So let us linger a little bit in the contemplation of the unanswerable,” describes FELIZ.

His mural echoes similar themes found in his “E” for the #FreiheitBerlin installation: flowing lines, bold colors, and, of course—a bird. For FELIZ, imagination is a powerful tool that, like a bird in flight, allows us to transcend our own boundaries. It grants us the freedom to reach new creative heights and explore worlds full of possibilities. To him, the pursuit of freedom—like the flight and song of birds—is a deeply human desire: when we embrace it, we experience the same joy and wonder as if we could fly ourselves.

FELIZ’s works are a perfect match for the atmosphere of Teufelsberg, a place where history, art, and nature converge. The hill stands as a symbol of transformation and new beginnings. Just like FELIZ’s artwork, reality and myth are woven together here. Visit us at Teufelsberg, discover FELIZ’s work, and let his flying birds inspire you. Maybe you’ll find your own definition of freedom along the way. Book your ticket now!

Letter H – Drew.Lab_One – Masterful Calligraphy in Street Art

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In the vibrant streets of Berlin, Drew.Lab_One, a versatile artist from Italy, has made a name for herself by blending semi-realistic portraits with abstract calligraphy. Since moving to Berlin in 2013, her multidisciplinary works have captivated audiences, drawing inspiration from her passion for mythology, ancient religions, and social issues.

A Calligraphic Prayer for Berlin

As part of the #freiheitberlin project at Teufelsberg, Drew.Lab_One created an impressive piece on the letter “H,” titled “Sonne im Herzen” (Sun in the Heart). Her goal was to craft a written mantra in abstract calligraphy. In a time when freedom seems to be a diminishing concept, and digital technologies can replicate even the uncertainty of the human hand, she chose to let go of legibility. Instead, she focused on the poetry and emotion of handwriting, a form of expression that traces our history from ancient to futuristic.

Her work on the letter “H” is such a calligraphic mantra. Drew.Lab_One describes it as “a prayer for a city that was once a temple of innovation, freedom, and a melting pot of cultures, but is now a place of bigotry, hypocrisy, and gentrification. In this new Berlin, I turn to the sun in my heart, an eternal light that cannot be extinguished: this is my gift to the city.”

From Naples to Berlin

Born on June 17, 1985, in Naples, Drew.Lab_One began her artistic journey at the age of 13 in experimental theater. It was during this time that her passion for portraiture and calligraphy developed, laying the foundation for her unique style. At 20, after completing her studies in modern philology, Drew.Lab_One shifted her creative focus to the streets. The urban walls of Berlin became her canvas, and the city itself a living dialogue through which she expressed her thoughts and societal critique.

Drew.Lab_One combines modern technology with her love for classical calligraphy. For her, it is no longer just about the legibility of the script but about the design itself. By merging Arabic, Italian, Cyrillic, and Gothic script traditions, she has developed a unique style that unites flowing gestures, geometric elegance, and structural strength. In her street art, she creates ritual spaces by repeating words and quotes in a secret language. These spaces invite the viewer to engage with the artwork and enable deep, almost spiritual experiences. For her, art is a ritual that transforms words into mantras because “words create reality.” Her innovative blend of tradition and modernity makes her works visual mantras – powerful “visual sounds” that explore human experience and urban life.

The Wise Monkey Speaks Again

In March 2024, Drew.Lab_One presented another work at Teufelsberg titled “All Animals Are Equal ft. Sage Monkey” as part of the Power of Female Art Festival. The mural consists of three sections and addresses war, propaganda, and Julian Assange.

In the first section, Drew.Lab_One gives voice to her iconic figure, the Wise Monkey, asking, “What happened to ‘Never Again’?” – a reference to the broken promises of never waging war again, especially in light of conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine.

The second section quotes George Orwell’s Animal Farm: “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” With this, Drew.Lab_One critiques the inequality and hypocrisy still rampant in our society.

In the third part, she paints Julian Assange on a piece of cardboard and exposes it to the elements in Berlin, symbolizing his current state: forgotten and neglected. Drew.Lab_One leaves it to the viewer to decide whether to let Assange “rot” or to take action to give him the place in society he deserves. Through this, she encourages reflection on our responsibility to heroes like him.

Drew.Lab_One’s art not only leaves its mark on the walls of Berlin but also in the hearts of those who engage with her work. Did you know that you can discover Drew.Lab_One’s incredible piece on the letter “H” for yourself? Join our Street Art Tour, visit the famous letters, and experience her unique art up close. Book your tickets now and dive into the fascinating world of street art!

Dan Kitchener – Urban Art in Vivid Colors

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Dan Kitchener, who has worked with stars like Lenny Kravitz, Paul McCartney, and Miley Cyrus, is considered a true legend in the world of street art. With his distinctive style, he has created stunning murals worldwide, inspired by his travels through South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. But what makes him and his art so unique? Find out in this article, where we delve into his career, style, and his work at Teufelsberg.

Dan’s Journey to Street Art

Born in Essex in 1974, Dan Kitchener, also known as “DANK,” began his artistic career at university, initially focusing on conceptual art and illustration. However, he quickly realized this was not his path. Instead, he found his passion in creating underground comics and gradually turned towards street art. After his studies, Dan worked in TV post-production, creating animations and motion graphics for commercials, music videos, and film intros. This job allowed him to explore elements like lighting, composition, and dynamic perspectives—elements that would later define his art.

Dan discovered his true passion on the streets of London. He used every free moment to find new locations for his art and fill the city’s walls with his works. This relentless drive to express himself creatively eventually led him to leave his job in the TV industry and become a full-time artist.

A Piece of Tokyo in Berlin

Dan Kitchener’s art is heavily influenced by urban themes, inspired by everyday life and the impressions he gathers from his surroundings. He finds beauty in the most unassuming corners of the city and is particularly fascinated by the interplay between light, shadow, and composition. A standout example of this style is his mural at Teufelsberg.

The mural depicts a rain-soaked street illuminated by vibrant neon lights. The inspiration for such scenes comes from his nighttime strolls through Tokyo, where he photographed the streets in pouring rain to capture the perfect mood and perspective. He translates these impressions into his dynamic, colourful, modern-impressionist style, making his art unique and vibrant.

 

Kitchener is not just about depicting a realistic street scene; he wants to capture the emotions and moods he experiences in those moments. His works convey more than just the obvious—they allow the viewer to feel what it is like to stand in the middle of a bustling city, filled with energy and life. The mural at Teufelsberg captures this atmosphere perfectly: when you look at it, you can almost feel like you are in Tokyo, forgetting for a moment that you are actually in Berlin.

Speed and Precision

What makes Dan Kitchener so unique is his unconventional technique. Dan works entirely freehand with spray cans, without the aid of grids, stencils, guidelines, or projectors. To him, wall painting is a process that should belong solely to the artist. That is why he takes all his reference photos himself and creates every component of his works without any assistance. This method gives his works a dynamic and lively quality.

Dan Kitchener distinguishes himself from many other street artists through his speed and energy. He is known for his “Speed Paintings,” where he paints large walls in an amazingly short time. This speed is no accident but the result of a thoughtful approach: he keeps himself physically fit, runs several kilometres every day, and uses the energy from this activity to prepare for painting. This intensive work style is both a physical and mental challenge, one that he loves.

Music plays a crucial role in this process. While painting, Dan often listens to fast techno or trance music. These rhythms help him get into a creative flow, almost like a daydream. He lets the sounds guide him, immersing himself in the universe he is creating. Every song he listens to while painting becomes part of the artwork, a memory of the place and moment it was created.

With his diverse and unique approach, Dan Kitchener has gained a steadily growing fanbase. His murals, exhibitions, and live painting events captivate people worldwide. So, the next time you find yourself at Teufelsberg, take a moment to appreciate his work. Let yourself be swept away by the colours, energy, and atmosphere—you might just discover the beauty in the most everyday urban scenes.

Letter I – Rabea Senftenberg – A Unique Voice of Street Art

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While wandering the streets of Berlin, you have likely come across many forms of street art, but have you heard of Rabea Senftenberg? Her intricate and detailed works stand out among the rest. She is one of Germany’s most renowned street artists and a significant female voice in this art scene.

Subtlety in a Colourful World

Rabea Senftenberg’s art is truly unique. Unlike many other street artists who primarily use spray paint, she prefers ink, markers, and pens. These tools allow her to create a distinct universe on the walls of Berlin. Her subjects—ghosts, cats, monsters, and robots—are masterfully drawn in black and white, adorning doorways, drainpipes, walls, and the most hidden corners of the city.

 

Rabea’s works transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. Her art tells stories that touch on both personal and universal themes such as identity, freedom, and the daily struggles of life. What is particularly fascinating is her ability to convey complex emotions with minimal means. Her black-and-white figures have a timeless quality that invites viewers to take a closer look. Every line and every detail is carefully considered, contributing to the overall impact of the work.

Rabea’s art offers a subtle perspective in a world often dominated by colourful, large-scale murals. Her works are detailed, monochromatic, yet powerful—a testament to the fact that black-and-white images can be just as impactful as colourful ones. With each figure she draws, Rabea creates a connection with those who view her art. Her unmistakable style has earned her recognition not only in the street art scene but also in galleries across Europe. Her works can be admired and purchased in places ranging from Berlin to Athens, whether on canvas, as illustrations, or on cobblestones (Dr. Diana Marossek, Street Art Berlin).

Her art also finds its way onto everyday objects, transforming them into unique artworks. Chairs, helmets, vases, and even the iconic Berlin Bear become art pieces through her hands, blending art with daily life. Rabea shows that creativity can find a place anywhere.

Freedom in Black and White

Her distinctive style can also be found on Teufelsberg, where she has painted the letter “I” with her characteristic black-and-white art. This piece is yet another example of how Rabea creates profound and thought-provoking art with simple means.

For Rabea, the freedom that Berlin offers is mainly about being able to be herself. “There’s hardly a greater luxury,” she says. With just a few words and clear lines, she expresses this freedom in her art. “WTF. Wild. Tolerant. Free.” These words capture the essence of her Berlin and invite visitors to find their own interpretations.

Rabea Senftenberg continues to live and work in Berlin, and her works remind us that art has no boundaries. In a city known for its diversity and openness, Rabea’s art has found a special place. She has carved out her own path, establishing herself as a significant voice in the street art scene. Her art is not loud or colourful, but subtle and multi-layered—and that is precisely where its unique power lies.

Book your ticket now for our Street Art Tour to experience the fascinating art of Rabea Senftenberg firsthand. Let yourself be inspired by her unique view of the world and discover what freedom means to you.

Alaniz – Fighting Injustice with Murals

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As you stroll through Neukölln, you might notice powerful murals that instantly captivate you. These are likely the work of Alaniz, an Argentinian street artist who once lived here and formed deep connections with the people and places that continue to influence his art. But who is this artist, whose work brings the walls of Berlin and many other cities around the world to life?

From Abandoned Factories to Street Art

Alaniz began his journey in the street art scene in 2011 in Berlin. Without formal art education, he developed his own style in Berlin’s abandoned factories and lost places. These locations offered him the freedom to experiment without constraints. One of these places was Teufelsberg, where he painted the buildings as early as 2011, back when the site was not open to the public. Over the years, Teufelsberg became a creative playground for Alaniz, a place he repeatedly returned to, creating new works and continuing his artistic development. For him, this place is not only a site of artistic creation but also full of personal memories.

During this time, Alaniz discovered the works of Italian street artist Blu, whose monumental murals and innovative techniques deeply influenced him. Alaniz was particularly fascinated by Blu’s use of telescopic poles and paint rollers to create large-scale wall paintings. Alaniz adopted and further developed this technique to leave powerful messages on tall walls.

Another significant influence on Alaniz’s work was the political rock music from his homeland, Argentina. This music, marked by protest and resistance, inspired him to use art as a means of political expression. For Alaniz, his art is not just about aesthetics; it is about conveying important messages and highlighting social injustices. Through his murals, he actively opposes racism, segregation, discrimination, and social inequality.

From the beginning, Alaniz has been driven by a passion for bringing art to people who often have no access to galleries or museums. He sees the streets as his canvas and aims to create a direct connection with his audience through his art. For him, it is crucial that art does not just happen in exclusive galleries but directly on the streets, where it can be seen and experienced by everyone.

Global Connections

Since 2015, Alaniz has led a nomadic life—a lifestyle that can be seen as a statement against borders. He travels from city to city, from country to country, leaving traces of his art everywhere. Although he officially left Berlin in 2016, he continues to return to realize new projects. His works are shaped by the people and traditions he encounters on his travels. He seeks out the commonalities between cultures and expresses these in his murals. For Alaniz, art is a universal language that transcends barriers and brings people together.

Rage and Frustration: Alaniz’s Poetic Critique

One of his most famous murals in Berlin was created in June 2021 and is located on Teufelsberg. This work goes far beyond mere aesthetics and serves as a powerful critique of the injustices perpetrated by so-called First World nations, which use their power and resources to exploit and oppress other countries.

In a poem, Alaniz expresses his anger and frustration with the system: “Fuck your borders, your frontiers, your divisions, your police and your mom’s morality, your church, your government, your fears and insecurities, your ego and your unjustified pride. Fuck your discrimination, your segregation, your religion, your money and your luxurious lifestyle. Fuck your Facebook, your Instagram, your followers, your haters, your stalkers, and your friends. Nothing of that really matters if you invade nations, destroy countries and murder innocents in order to keep your system running. You are the worst scum of earth.”

These words reflect the deep disappointment Alaniz feels about the injustices and inequalities he sees in the world. For him, the borders powerful nations draw symbolize their policies of exclusion and exploitation. Although the technology exists to solve global inequalities, those in power lack the interest in improving people’s lives.

For Alaniz, art is not only an expression but also a tool of resistance and change. Despite the often bleak themes in his work, he remains an artist who believes in the possibility of a better world. “Everyone has their part to play in changing the world,” he says, convinced that even the smallest actions can make a difference.

If you want to learn more about Alaniz and his work, come and experience his art up close—they tell the story of an artist who seeks to change the world through his art.

Letter E – CokyOne’s Artistic Vision in Berlin

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In the vibrant streets of Berlin, where graffiti and street art adorn the city’s walls, one name stands out: CokyOne. Born in Aachen in 1985, this artist has made a name for himself in recent years, enriching the urban art scene with his unique murals and personalized designs. Find out inn this blog post, how CokyOne transforms his passion for street art into stunning works of art and the messages he conveys through them.

CokyOne’s Journey into Street Art

CokyOne is an urban artist who has been living in Berlin since 2020. His journey into the world of street art began at the tender age of 12, inspired by his brother Michael. What started as a youthful adventure on legal and illegal walls became a serious passion after an incident in 2003, when he broke his leg while running from the police.

Despite being rejected by the University of the Arts in Düsseldorf, CokyOne did not let this setback discourage him. Instead, he delved deeper into the world of street art, honing his skills in both graffiti and professional painting. His work blends abstract graffiti elements with photorealistic painting techniques, focusing on large-scale murals and indoor paintings.

 

CokyOne is particularly known for his captivating depictions of animals and characters that remind him of his childhood. These childhood heroes and animals inspire him because they represent “innocent beings in a crazy and colourful world influenced by human culture.” His artwork often reflects social and critical societal themes, with a particular focus on humans as environmental destroyers.

Tailored Creativity

In addition to his work as a graffiti artist, CokyOne has also established a successful practice in custom clothing design. He is especially renowned for designing personalized sneakers that showcase his creativity and versatility. With extensive experience, he can quickly bring almost any type of design or image to life.

CokyOne also offers custom art for various spaces. He creates murals that align with specific themes for restaurants, bars, or cafes, using spray cans, airbrush techniques, or brushes.

Freedom in Colour

One striking example of CokyOne’s art can be found on Teufelsberg, where he designed the letter “E.” Here, he visually interpreted the theme of freedom by depicting two different birds as symbols of freedom: an eagle and a swallow. “Flying has always symbolized freedom, and since I usually depict animals in my pictures, it fit perfectly,” he explains. The eagle, shown on one side of the letter, represents strength, courage, and freedom, often used as a heraldic animal. On the other side, CokyOne depicts a swallow, which embodies hope, luck, and freedom as well. With strong contrasts and vibrant colours, his art brings colour to the grey world. “Colour also has a touch of freedom for me,” he explains.

 

“The concept of freedom has many facets. For me, it is primarily artistic freedom that takes center stage in such projects. Since I also do a lot of work where there are specific guidelines for the motif, it is all the more important for me to be able to work completely freely in some pictures. That is freedom for me—no guidelines or requirements, just painting whatever comes to mind. It has become a very important balance to my work, and I keep realizing how much I need it.”

CokyOne’s art on Teufelsberg is an impressive example of his ability to convey deeper themes through street art. It is a call to celebrate freedom and see the world through the eyes of art. Visit Teufelsberg and experience CokyOne’s work firsthand and feel the magic of his art.

Benzi Brofman – An Artist Who Moves the World

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Have you ever experienced an artwork that changed your perspective on the world? Benzi Brofman has the gift of creating such impactful pieces, and we are thrilled that he has left one of them at Teufelsberg. Let yourself be captivated by his fascinating murals and discover the stories behind them in this article.

Versatile Artworks

Benzi Brofman is a street artist and muralist from Migdal HaEmek in northern Israel. Without formal art training, he independently made his way into the world of mural painting. Today, he leaves his artistic mark in various cities worldwide. So if you find yourself in Vienna, Barcelona, or Budapest, keep an eye out for his works. Particularly, the famous Brick Lane in London is one of his favourite spots for spray painting.

Brofman not only creates graffiti walls in cities around the globe but also designs murals for restaurants, high-tech offices, and communities. His creative ideas have brightened ice cream shops in Berlin and bagel shops in London.

In addition, he hosts graffiti parties for children, workshops for companies, and gives lectures on graffiti. He is active not only in the business world but also in volunteer and community projects promoting social causes, such as bullying prevention among children and teenagers and the promotion of human rights. His artistic activities often aim to raise awareness of various social issues and bring society together.

Art as a Response to Violence

On October 7, 2023, Brofman narrowly escaped the deadly Hamas attacks. The day before, he was at an event in Kibbutz Re’im, painting live at a trance event. He initially planned to spend the weekend there but left early because his wife was ill, and he had an uneasy feeling.

Since then, he has dedicated his art mainly to the victims and abductees of the Hamas massacre. His portraits of these individuals carry the poignant message, “Bring them home now.” The first of these works was created in Haifa. Subsequently, the Israeli embassy in London asked him to use his art to draw attention to the dire situation of the hostages, followed by a commission in Berlin.

Girls Just Want to Have Fun

Brofman’s preferred style features realistic black-and-white portraits with colourful backgrounds and accompanying texts. His greatest inspiration is people themselves, with the hope that his works bring joy, inspiration, or comfort – “People come before art,” he says. As a child, he was fascinated by faces, especially eyes, which reveal much about a person. Many of his works include texts that provoke thought and clearly convey his messages. Benzi also created such a piece at Teufelsberg.

“The mural I painted at Teufelsberg combines an important message with humour – two characters from the Golden Age and a cat with the message that one should enjoy every moment in life, no matter how old. It is all about attitude, and even if you are 70 years old, you can be young and enjoy life to the fullest.”

          His art is not just a visual representation but a deeper message about life and humanity. His realistic portraits and colourful backgrounds celebrate the human spirit and remind us to appreciate each day and make the most of it.

Benzi Brofman’s art touches the soul and moves hearts. Despite all difficulties, his passion for art, especially murals, has overcome negative voices from the past and his fears. Today, he uses his art to empower children and teenagers and to create art that benefits others. Let yourself be inspired by his works and visit Teufelsberg to experience the magic of his art up close. Until then, check out our exciting Instagram Reel about Benzi!

Letter R – The Art and Magic of Orson

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Today, we unveil the talent behind the letter ‘R’ in the impressive #FreiheitBerlin lettering. Renowned graffiti artist Orson has crafted this letter, adding his personal touch. Join us on this exciting journey through Orson’s creative world!

The Thrilling 90s in Berlin

Growing up in Berlin, Orson’s journey began in the 90s, a time when the graffiti scene in the capital was booming. Berlin offered countless free spaces and walls to decorate – perfect conditions for a young, aspiring artist like Orson.

The 90s were an exciting time for graffiti artists in Berlin. It was a period of experimentation and mutual inspiration. The walls and surfaces of Berlin became vibrant galleries reflecting the rebellious and free spirit of the city. Orson’s work added color to places like Mauerpark and other spots around Berlin. Keep your eyes open, as you can spot Orson’s tag in many colourful graffiti works.

But what is a tag? A tag is more than just a signature – it is the trademark of graffiti artists. It is usually a stylized version of their artist name, designed in a unique and recognizable way. Tags are an important part of graffiti culture, allowing artists to showcase their identity and individual style.

Orson’s Art Style: Writing, Lettering, and Comic Art

Orson spent the 90s refining his techniques and developing a style that blends classic graffiti methods with innovative elements. He made a name for himself through his classic writing, lettering, and comic art. But what does this mean exactly? Let’s take a closer look at his techniques.

Writing involves the spray painting of letters and words, often in a complex and artistic manner. Lettering focuses on the design of the letters themselves, often incorporating various styles and effects. Another key element in Orson’s work is comic art, which he uses to create vivid and expressive characters. He draws on both classic and modern comic characters to add an extra dimension to his pieces.

Graffiti Magic on Teufelsberg

A particularly impressive example of Orson’s skill can be found on Teufelsberg, where he worked with classic comic characters. These pieces showcase his ability to combine traditional techniques with modern influences to create unique artworks.

 

One of Orson’s most remarkable works on Teufelsberg is the letter ‘R’ on the #FreiheitBerlin lettering. “Art is freedom to me! In both good and bad times. To do what I want, in heaven or in hell.” He embedded this philosophy into his ‘R’. His depiction of an angel and a devil on the letter symbolizes the dual nature of art – both heavenly and hellish. Orson was particularly excited to paint this letter, as the ‘R’ also appears in his tag.

Orson exemplifies how passion and dedication can lead to impressive art. Book our Street Art Tour now and discover the work of Orson and other talented artists. Experience creative freedom on Teufelsberg! Perhaps you will be inspired to begin your own creative journey.

Letter F – A Touch of Surrealism

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Are you ready to delve into the next captivating chapter of the #FreiheitBerlin series? You do not have to wait any longer! In this article, we are excited to introduce you to Juli Jahh, the brilliant mind behind the fascinating letter ‘F’. If you have not read the story behind the #FreiheitBerlin lettering or the articles about the previous letters, we recommend starting there.

Unleashing Imagination

Meet Juli Jahh, a captivating Lithuanian-Polish multidisciplinary artist whose work spans analogue drawing, illustration, murals and live painting. Her artworks exude a delicate balance of fragility and expression. Her use of colour and black ink creates an impressive tension that draws the viewer in. These expressive elements are combined with sharp, angular, or curvy lines, resulting in a range of pieces from informal caricatures to stunningly detailed and realistic portrayals. However, it is her exploration of surrealist ideas that most defines her work, inviting you into her delusional world to engage with and explore.

Juli’s drawing process is as simple as it is powerful: she faces a blank sheet of paper and lets her emotions and thoughts flow freely. This creative act serves as a cathartic ritual, providing relief in the warm embrace of solitude.

Experiment at Teufelsberg

Domcast is a sound installation and podcast series featuring ambient, experimental live performances that use the dome at Teufelsberg as a natural parabolic reverb. This project is a collaboration between Dots Gallery and 11001 Records. During one of these performances, Juli Jah painted live, inspired by the sounds of musicians like Jiawen Wang and Bruno Gola. She played with splashes of paint, organic shapes, and lines guided by the music. Within a few hours, she created an impressive mural. However, for Juli Jah, it was more about the creative experiment than the result.

 

Freedom as a Path to Transformation

When you observe the letter “F” in #FreiheitBerlin, you will quickly recognize Juli’s signature style—the fragile yet powerful colours, the bold lines, and the surreal atmosphere that invites you to step into another world. Her art beckons you to leave reality behind and delve into the depths of her imagination.

 

“The concept of the letter ‘F’ is based on life’s experiences. People often avoid and disown negative, traumatic events instead of confronting them. Rejection is not validation; only by sitting with ourselves can we find deeper meaning. There are no coincidences, only synchronizations; every situation and emotion are a source of knowledge if we look deeper.” Juli explains. “Freedom is transformation. Freedom might be painful but crucial to transform and thrive. Some things you can learn only in the dark, by choosing the consequence for the sake of just being yourself. The Berlin Bear, cracks, organic ornaments, and the colour red—all hold significant symbolism, complemented by the text on the other side of the letter. I invite viewers to interpret these symbols according to their own experiences, beliefs, and perspectives.”

In the end, you do not have to necessarily like an artist’s style or art; you just need to understand the reason behind it. Juli’s art represents her personal truth, and to truly understand it, you must genuinely desire to see it.

Do you want to see the letters in person? Book our Street Art Tour and let Juli’s unique interpretation of freedom inspire you. Stay tuned, because we will soon reveal the secrets behind the other letters. Do not miss out on the chance to uncover the incredible stories and artistry that make up #FreiheitBerlin.

Nina Valkhoff – Endangered Beauty

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Imagine walking on the grounds of Teufelsberg and coming face to face with a majestic tiger that seems to leap off the wall. Surely, you would want to know more about the meaning behind it. If so, we are thrilled to introduce you today to one of our remarkable muralists, Nina Valkhoff.

Vibrant Art with a Message

Nina is a Dutch muralist and painter from Rotterdam, where she studied illustration at the Willem de Kooning Art Academy. With over 20 years of professional experience, she has created stunning murals around the globe. Her work can be seen in countries like Sweden, Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Argentina, Portugal, Mexico, France, Curaçao, the UK, Germany, Monaco, and Ireland. If during your travels you have ever admired a captivating mural of flora and fauna on an apartment building, restaurant, office, or shop, there is a good chance you have encountered Nina’s vibrant artwork.

Creating large mural paintings is Nina’s passion. Her unique style focuses on depicting plants and animals, with a special emphasis on endangered species. Through her art, she aims to raise awareness about these creatures and showcase their beauty. Nina’s work makes a powerful statement about our selective love for more familiar or common animals, urging us to appreciate and protect all species, especially those at risk.

Her style is realistic with a touch of fantasy; she loves incorporating colors that aren’t originally there to create a vibrant yet realistic image. With a lot of attention to detail and a deep love for nature, she designs her works to make the world a little happier. Street art doesn’t always have a profound message. Sometimes, its value lies simply in making different areas and neighborhoods more beautiful and picturesque.

But how does Nina create these massive artworks? To work safely at great heights, she uses a mobile aerial work platform and a safety harness. She begins her process by creating a grid of square sections, which she overlays on her design to accurately transfer the sketch lines onto the wall. Once the sketch is on the wall, the grid lines are painted over with white. Then, Nina fills large areas with color, gradually adding details like light and shadow effects, making the animals and plants appear increasingly realistic. On average, it takes her about 10 days to complete a mural.

Tiger in Focus

In line with her mission, Nina created a stunning tiger mural at Teufelsberg in March 2024 during our Power of Female Art Festival. Her creation certainly achieves its purpose—the majestic tiger looms over you, evoking a sense of awe and making you reflect on the plight of this magnificent species. The painting is dynamic and playful, with a hit of magic.

 

“I am really obsessed with tigers at the moment,” Nina shares. “Of course, it is an endangered species. I let myself get inspired by the walls around me. I think it really fits; it fits the place. Part of the design, the background is the original background that I found on the wall. I changed it a little bit with spray cans, but I like to use also the sort of rougher look that Teufelsberg has to emphasize the tiger.”

Do you want to see Nina Valkhoff in action as she creates her breathtaking tiger mural at Teufelsberg? Check out our Instagram reel and experience her creative magic up close!

Are you also overwhelmed by Nina’s realistic tiger? Then you should come by and see Nina’s incredible tiger mural in person. Stay tuned, because we will be introducing many other talented artists very soon!

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