Dessau research documents GDR-era public art

A research project conducted by the State Office for Heritage Management and Archaeology Saxony-Anhalt and the East German Savings Bank Foundation has documented public art from the GDR era in Dessau. The study examined works created between 1949 and 1990, including murals, reliefs, sculptures, and facade designs.

Of the 192 works identified from 55 artists, 142 remain preserved. While 116 are still in their original locations, others have been moved or stored. The fate of the remaining 50 works is either confirmed as lost or remains unknown. Through the evaluation of construction files, contracts, and interviews with witnesses and artists, researchers were able to verify or identify several creators for the first time.

To make these findings accessible, a website featuring a map of 60 selected works will be launched. Additionally, the Kunsthalle Dessau will host an exhibition from November 10 to 15 showcasing 30 of these works, accompanied by workshops and guided tours.