Did you know we’ve got a piece of the Berlin Wall in Christchurch? Two pieces, actually.
You’ll find them in Rauora Park near Cashel Street, decorated with this colourful street art. The art on the wall pieces is curated by Fiksate Studio & Gallery, and it has recently been updated with work from Kophie Su’a-Hulsbosch (Meep) and Jessie Rawcliffe. Meep’s piece represents love and freedom and is a full-on hit of colour. Jessie’s work is a kaitiaki (guardian) facing upwards in a peaceful pose.
Christchurch is one of many cities around the world with pieces of this historic wall, which served as a symbol of the Cold War and forced segregation, but also became such a powerful symbol of hope and freedom once it started coming down. Graffiti always played a role on the Berlin Wall. Fiksate is continuing this tradition in collaboration with christchurch City Council, acknowledging and celebrating the later, positive elements of this wall.
The Berlin Wall sections have been in Christchurch since 2017 to mark the 30th anniversary of its fall, and Fiksate installed the first murals in January 2019.
You can buy art by Jessie and Meep from Fiksate online or in the gallery.