Letter T – Adam Todd – Graffiti that Breathes Freedom
The creativity of each artist is unique, and that is especially true for Adam Todd, an Australian graffiti artist based in Berlin. Known for his signature blend of neutral tones with vibrant highlights, he has left his mark on the streets from New York to Tokyo and Berlin. One of his most remarkable pieces, however, is close by: the “T” in the monumental #FreiheitBerlin installation on Teufelsberg.
Courage to Embrace Freedom
In his work on the letter “T,” Todd has created a bold symbol of freedom, aptly titled “Freedom is the Unknown.” Against a bright pink background, a powerful, stylized arm holding a spray can stands in stark black—a symbol of creative freedom and the drive for self-expression. On the reverse side of the “T,” the words “FREIHEIT IST… THE UNKNOWN” are emblazoned. This message encapsulates the essence of freedom, highlighting that it lies in the unknown, in the adventure of not knowing.
Adam himself describes his interpretation of the artwork as follows: “In the endless rat race of life, we are forced to set goals, follow plans, and face challenges. But as creative beings—and first and foremost as fellow humans—the art of freedom lies in the unknown. Every day we tackle tasks that lead us down various paths, blending conscious and unconscious decision-making. Knowing what to do, yet not knowing what lies around the next corner—that, to me, is true freedom. Being able to decorate the letter ‘T,’ which also represents my last name, Todd, was important to me, as it reflects my journey through past, present, and future.”
Between Graffiti and Urban Aesthetics
Adam Todd describes his art as “Stencil Street,” a powerful mix of graffiti, stencil techniques, and urban aesthetics. Since 2015, the Australian artist has passionately dedicated himself to street art, taking his work from Perth to New York and Berlin. Inspired by modern art icons like Andy Warhol, Banksy, and Shepard Fairey, Todd has developed a distinctive style that continuously evolves and reveals new dimensions.
His works capture the raw energy of urban life and the freedom of street art—a form that does not confine itself to walls but sees the entire city as its canvas. His Berlin studio, ATA Studio in Kreuzberg, is where he refines his ideas, creating pieces that reflect global themes, personal experiences, and his deep connection to freedom.
The Cheetah Mural
In 2023, Adam Todd left another striking mural on Teufelsberg. Near the entrance, just below the canteen, you will find a dynamic depiction of a cheetah—a symbol of power, speed, and freedom. In this work, Todd stays true to his characteristic colour palette: the vivid pink, also seen in the letter “T” of the “#FreiheitBerlin” installation, runs throughout the background. The cheetah, with its powerful yet graceful form, perfectly embodies the theme of freedom and the untamed energy that defines Todd’s style. Like all of his work, this mural conveys a strong message—the speed and grace of the cheetah symbolize freedom and boundless energy.
Adam Todd is a breath of fresh air in today’s art scene. He constantly reinvents himself, using every spray and brushstroke to champion freedom, creativity, and the courage to push boundaries.
So next time you are on Teufelsberg, take a moment to appreciate the work of Adam Todd. If you want an up-close experience of the installation and the iconic “T,” book a ticket for our Street Art Tour. Only on this tour can you admire this powerful piece from up close!