Jewish memorial on Grosse Hamburger Strasse, Berlin
This is part of a small memorial on a street just north of Berlin's centre. I posted another view of part of it a few days ago. I shot this as high key to blend the elements of the photo together better.
Grosse Hamburger Strasse was one of the main streets of Berlin's Jewish Quarter in the lead up to World War II. Also on the street was an old people's home that was used as a detention centre for many thousands of the Jews condemned to death at Auschwitz.
The building was destroyed, and in its place is this small memorial and a statue that represents a group of Jews being led to their deaths.
The placing of stones by visitors is a similar gesture to the lighting of candles.
Today is a day when the world should remember what happened in New York 12 years ago. May those who were taken from us rest in peace and those who still think that violence is the way turn from this path.
I also remember my brother David, who died on 9/11/01 in different but tragic circumstances. I will never forget the short time we had as brothers David, and will always miss you. As a talented young artist, I think you would have enjoyed 365.
A very moving memorial Sean The droop of the figures depicts the whole horror of WW2 & the it still goes on in the world...no one ever seems to learn!
A dreadful tragedy for you to lose a brother so young, you must miss him greatly, there is nothing like a brother to go through life with! I am sure both your sons will be extra appreciative of each other because of it too.
You bring tears to my eyes as your image and narrative pay homage to the Jewish people, those who died in 9/11, your brother, and all whose lives must be spared in wars and tragedies of now and in the future. You've used a powerful statue to convey your thoughts and feelings. I passed by this many times, and wandered through the small cemetery as well . . .
This is one of the most moving yet. My best friend in Jewish - and not until the past 20ish years did she become a "practicing" Jew. My Uncle participated in cleaning out the camps after the war. It is so very far beyond my "Camelot" experience of life.
Bless you for remembering your brother David. Big hugs.
Wow... They look like they are frozen. You chose a very high contrast making the whole piece look as if they were covered in snow or ice. Frozen statues!
Terrific shot, so poignant and moving. The sadness is depicted in their faces. So tragic too to hear of he death of your brother. I agree with your sentiments about turning from violence.
Such an eerie looking statue, and the processing you have chosen emphasises this. Your post today has bought tears. As well as remembering the horror of 9/11, I sadly know what it's like to lose a brother, my thoughts are with you on this day.
I place a stone as I stand here, your picture has spurred the pain I feel. I have lost family to this pointless violence. Do hope such people deter from this path..... as the pain and grief stays within..... sorry about your brother.... your picture and narrative moved me.
A dreadful tragedy for you to lose a brother so young, you must miss him greatly, there is nothing like a brother to go through life with! I am sure both your sons will be extra appreciative of each other because of it too.
Bless you for remembering your brother David. Big hugs.
Thank you all for your kind words and sympathy. David's passing was a long time ago, but I still reflect on a life that was far too short, and of the memories that we never got to build together. Cazla, I am touched and equally sad for you to have suffered the same loss my friend.