Hamburg, December 12 – The Hamburg-Nord district assembly has approved a proposal to introduce legal spaces for street art and graffiti within the district. This decision, announced today, aims to provide young people with opportunities for legal artistic expression and to enhance cultural diversity, while also working to reduce illegal spraying.
Inspiration from European Metropolises
Konstantin Bonfert of the FDP highlighted that the initiative draws inspiration from major European cities such as Paris and Barcelona, which have successfully implemented similar programs. “We are giving young people room to express themselves, strengthening cultural diversity in the district, and preventing conflicts,” stated Carsten Gerloff of the SPD faction in the Nord district assembly.
The district coalition, comprising the SPD, CDU, and FDP, believes that these designated areas will allow young artists to legally and visibly implement their creative ideas and design wall surfaces. The district office is now tasked with identifying suitable locations for these legal art spaces. This process will involve consultations with public entities like the Hochbahn (public transport company) and SAGA (housing association), as well as engaging with schools and youth centers located near potential sites.
Combating Illegal Spraying Through Legal Avenues
A key objective of this resolution is to curb illegal graffiti by offering legitimate alternatives. “Through these legal spaces, illegal spraying can also be reduced and neighborhoods revitalized,” Gerloff added, emphasizing the dual benefit of fostering artistic talent and improving urban aesthetics.
The Legacy of Graffiti in Hamburg
The discussion around legal graffiti spaces comes amidst a rich and sometimes controversial history of street art in Hamburg. Notable figures like the sprayer OZ, who left behind an estimated 120,000 graffiti tags before his death in 2014, have shaped the city’s urban landscape. The ongoing debate over how to manage and preserve his work underscores the complex relationship between art, legality, and public perception.
Moreover, initiatives like “Hamburg Ehrensache: Graffiti-Kunst für Kinder und Jugendliche” (Hamburg a Matter of Honor: Graffiti Art for Children and Young People) already exist, where artists such as Ray de la Cruz teach children and teenagers how to use spray cans responsibly and foster mutual respect. The unique work of artists like Rebelzer, known for his distinctive “Freaks” characters, has also become an integral part of Hamburg’s cityscape, further illustrating the public’s engagement with and appreciation for street art.
Next Steps: Identification and Implementation
The district office will now commence the detailed process of identifying and evaluating potential locations for these legal graffiti areas. The involvement of public companies and local educational institutions is expected to ensure that the chosen sites are accessible, safe, and integrated into the community. The successful implementation of this initiative is anticipated to create a vibrant platform for artistic expression, transforming urban spaces into dynamic canvases for creativity.
The move by Hamburg-Nord reflects a growing trend in urban planning to embrace street art as a legitimate cultural form, recognizing its potential to beautify public spaces, engage communities, and provide a constructive outlet for artistic talent.
Źródło: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/street-art-und-graffiti-hamburg-nord-soll-legale-flaechen-bekommen,graffiti-146.html
