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schlossplatz
schlossplatz schlossplatz
schlossplatz schlossplatz
schlossplatz schlossplatz
schlossplatz schlossplatz
   

Palaces / Palaces
2022

Wood, aluminum, steel, cardboard, vinyl sticker, copper foil adhesive, tape, latex paint, cloth, embroidery
205 x 120 x 58 cm
Photo : Burkhard Peter

Palaces / Palaces is a tall free standing sculpture, which acts as a three-dimensional timeline. It depicts an extremely complex and contested site in the heart of Berlin, the Schlossplatz, which is situated on the Museum Island in Berlin-Mitte. This work traces the power dynamics at play on this site, as well as delineates the material and cultural lines of conflict that have shaped and are still shaping this place.

Model versions of the four former imperial castles that occupied this piece of land in 1650, 1690, 1750 and 1900 are stacked at its base. Heavy cut black steel moves upwards, marking the dark years of National Socialism. At the top, a model of the Palast der Republik, battered with its gold foil pealing, is straddled by the newly reconstructed imperial palace. Hung from this new palace and reaching almost to the floor is a mourning banner. Black embroidery on black cloth, it lists the names of the former German colonies and connect this new palace to the ones at its base. Finally, a massive blue ring, replicating the actual ring on the reconstructed palace, encircles and frames the object. As on the reconstructed place, the gilded Christian inscription commands: “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those who are in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth”.