Street-Art

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

Mone Uzi Crew – Between Rawness and Beauty

In September 2024, the talented graffiti artist Mone Uzi Crew created an impressive mural at Teufelsberg, capturing attention not only for its scale but for its powerful message. Located right next to the large tower building, the mural spans multiple floors, delivering a bold statement against superficiality—especially striking in the rugged surroundings of Teufelsberg.

Who is Mone Uzi Crew?

Behind the artist name “Mone Uzi Crew” is Christian Petersen from Hamburg. Born in 1975 in Lübeck, Petersen works as a Creative Director at a digital agency, though his true passion lies in graffiti art. Active as a freelance artist since the 1990s, he has specialized in large-scale wall productions over the past decade. Through his unique style and vibrant characters, he brings joy and imagination to urban walls, adding a splash of colour to the world around us.

Mone Uzi Crew’s signature style includes oversized eyes and teeth that bring his characters to life. At first glance, they might seem a bit unusual, but a closer look reveals a quirky charm and even humour. “When you add eyes and teeth to a simple stick, you playfully bring it to life,” Mone Uzi Crew explains. This approach creates characters that are both captivating and a little whimsical.

Believe in Your Inner Beauty

The mural at Teufelsberg is titled “Believe in Your Inner Beauty” and tackles the theme of superficiality. In a captivating scene, a seemingly unattractive character encourages a smaller, cute figure with the words, “Believe in your inner beauty”—an unexpected and therefore touching message from this character. The contrast between the two conveys a humorous yet profound message: beauty is not just skin deep, and outward positivity does not necessarily reflect inner strength. The characters embody the idea that true confidence comes from within.

One fascinating detail of the mural is the fruit slices inside the head of the larger character, symbolizing a look inward to reveal a “sweet” side that is not immediately visible. Those who look closely will also notice a small “M1” hidden in the large character’s fur—a subtle nod to Mone Uzi Crew’s artist name, “M one.”

Mone Uzi Crew’s style merges deconstruction with vibrant colours and clear, geometric shapes that blend in playful ways. His characters never seem threatening but radiate a positive energy that invites viewers to explore the details and find their own interpretation. His characters have a unique, charming expression that reminds us that art can simply be fun—and might even make us smile.

With this mural, Mone Uzi Crew has given Teufelsberg not only a visually striking work but also one that prompts reflection. The artworks on Teufelsberg are always worth a visit, and Mone Uzi Crew’s piece is one that stands out in particular. Be inspired and see what Teufelsberg has in store for you!

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!

Letter I – Natrix and Her Explosive Vision of Freedom

Artist Natrix has left her distinctive mark on the letter “I” in the #FreiheitBerlin installation. Her works are powerful symbols of energy, passion, and the relentless drive to push boundaries. Every line and detail she creates captures what freedom means to her, and this is vividly expressed on Teufelsberg. Join us as we dive into Natrix’s world, where art is not just seen but deeply felt.

Flame of Freedom

For Natrix, freedom is “about overcoming boundaries and constantly forging new paths” – an intense and passionate process. “Explosives and fire best symbolize the immense power and passion needed for this fight.” This sentiment is reflected in her contribution to the letter “I.” The piece depicts a burning fuse, slowly heading toward an explosive climax. It’s a striking symbol of energy, change, and determination, illustrating the immense force required to achieve freedom.

The fire as a central motif invites multiple interpretations. It could represent the determination of an individual willing to risk everything to overcome obstacles. The visual strength of the fire and its underlying explosive energy reinforce the idea that freedom is not passively obtained but is an active, often challenging, process.

Natrix’s Floral Mural

In addition to this work, Natrix also participated in the Power of Female Art Festival, held at Teufelsberg in March 2024. Sixteen female artists created remarkable murals amid music and a vibrant atmosphere. Her piece depicts a surreal representation of flowers contained in a glass vessel. The delicate, bell-shaped blossoms appear almost fragile, yet their precise, flowing forms convey a quiet strength. Her artwork could be seen as a metaphor for growth and beauty, standing resilient despite their fragility.

The choice of flowers as a motif leaves room for interpretation: perhaps they symbolize the delicacy of life or the fragility of freedom. At the same time, the artwork’s cool colors and soft shapes exude a meditative calm, contrasting sharply with the dynamic and explosive nature of her contribution to the #FreiheitBerlin project.

You can experience Natrix’s work up close – visit Teufelsberg and see the #FreiheitBerlin installation for yourself. Our Street Art Tour takes you directly to the rooftop letters, offering the best view of this incredible piece. Book your spot and immerse yourself in Natrix’s art and the vibrant Berlin street art scene!

Artist of the Month August – Lucinda Penn

In August, we had the pleasure of welcoming Australian artist Lucinda Penn, also known as LCND, as our Artist of the Month at Teufelsberg. On the first floor of our gallery, she created an impressive mural that captivates not only through its visual appeal but also through its unique collaborative process: the artwork was developed in a creative partnership with 20 people.

Symbols and Stories

Lucinda Penn, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Design from the University of South Australia, is known for combining art and design to express human experiences and emotions through symbolic objects and contrasting colours. “My work is about deconstructing life into symbols and using these symbols to tell stories,” she explains. Her pieces are filled with energy, positivity, and symbolic depth. This dynamism is reflected in her mural titled “Eyes Opened” at Teufelsberg.

For Lucinda, this project was more than just another wall painting; it was the realization of a long-held dream. The mural reflects her own journey to Berlin, which began about 5.5 years ago and changed her life profoundly. She arrived in the city as a traveller and immediately fell in love with the creative energy that permeates everywhere: “In early 2019, I discovered so much creativity and opportunities at every corner. I fell in love with the city, and it changed the course of my life.” This experience was so transformative that she abandoned her original studies in business to pursue design and eventually dedicated herself to mural painting. Berlin opened her eyes to new possibilities and ignited her desire to work as an artist. With the mural at Teufelsberg, a significant dream of hers came true.

Eyes Opened” reflects Lucinda’s journey and personal experiences. The mural features symbols such as a road, stairs leading upward, and doors opening – elements that symbolize the path she has taken over the years. She infused her love of travel and art into the piece, incorporating references to Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania.

Connection Through Art and Creativity

Lucinda loves to connect communities through her art. One example of this is her LCND Mural Painting Workshops, where she invites people to actively participate in the creation of her works. At Teufelsberg, the involvement of 20 individuals fostered a genuine community around the mural. For Lucinda, this is not just a form of artistic expression; it is also a way to share joy and happiness.

In addition to large-scale murals, Lucinda also engages in digital illustration and advocates for material recycling. She repurposes old canvases and leftover paint from her projects to create new works. Her art is not only found in Australia but also internationally – featured at Adelaide Airport and with various large companies such as Walker Corporation and Two Hands Wines.

Lucinda has experienced impressive artistic growth in recent years. In 2023, she won the Resene Total Colour Product Award in Auckland, New Zealand, and two of her projects were finalists at the Australian Graphic Design Awards.

With her mural at Teufelsberg, Lucinda is realizing yet another dream. Her goal is to spread her art worldwide and inspire communities through creativity. We are proud to be a part of her journey—come by and experience the mural for yourself!

Letter E – The Flowing World of FELIZ

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

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

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

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

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

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.