Abstract
Broadness and Diversity of Ludwig Brigade was produced for a specific historical, political, and art-world context in Germany. It was first exhibited at Kiinstlerhaus Bethanien, an arts center located in Kreuzberg section of West Berlin, about 100 yards from Wall. From third floor of building one has a good view over meandering fortifications, erected in 1961 by German Democratic Republic, which physically divide city and encircle West Berlin with two unscalable concrete walls. In between is a deathstrip complete with watchtowers, tank barriers, and all-night illumination. The GDR does not permit its citizens to leave its territory to go to West Berlin or countries outside Eastern bloc. Exceptions are made for old people who want to visit relatives in West and for a small number of politically trustworthy individuals. Those who try to leave without authorization risk their lives in mine fields and under guns of border guards. West German citizens and Berliners are admitted to East Berlin, capital of GDR, on one-day visas issued at border checkpoints to anyone who does not appear on a political blacklist. For West Germans, entry into territory of GDR beyond Berlin is possible only after a lengthy visa application and on invitation from agencies or individuals that are officially recognized by East German authorities as sponsors. Political considerations play an important role. Border guards thoroughly scrutinize every visitor from West and usually intercept all printed materials, newspapers, periodicals, books, and so forth, unless they have imprimatur of state. The GDR calls its Western border the border of peace and has proclaimed that actually existing socialism has been established on its territory.* After World War II tenets of socialist realist art, as they were practiced
Published Version
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