Hamburg räumt auf?, 2025

Public sculpture and audio walk with Jakob Walter

In 2014, toilet brushes became an unexpected symbol of protest in Hamburg during the so-called Klobürstenproteste. The demonstrations arose in response to the expansion of designated “Gefahrengebiete,” which allowed police to conduct body searches and other invasive measures without requiring concrete suspicion. As a form of resistance, protesters carried toilet brushes concealed under their jackets, creating the impression that they were carrying weapons. The tactic was intended to confuse police and draw attention to the expansion of police powers and the suspension of ordinary protections against arbitrary searches. As part of Kunst im öffentlichen Raum Hamburg, we chose this particular site at the Sternschanze because it marks the former boundary of the “Gefahrengebiete.” Together with Jakob Walter, we developed the light sculpture as well as an accompanying audio walk.

In 2014, toilet brushes became an unexpected symbol of protest in Hamburg during the so-called "Klobürstenproteste". These demonstrations arose in response to the expansion of "Gefahrengebiete", which allowed police to conduct body searches and other invasive measures without requiring concrete suspicion. As a form of resistance, protesters carried toilet brushes under their jackets, mimicking concealed weapons. This tactic was meant to confuse law enforcement and draw attention to the broadening of police powers.
Modified street lamp, acrylic glass rods, LED light, stainless steel, lacquer
The event also included a trash-collecting action registered with Hamburger Stadtreinigung, during which participants listened to an audio piece on headphones.
For the inauguration, we collaborated with the “Süße Frauen” of Blaumeier-Atelier Bremen, who presented a performance.
“Süße Frauen” of Blaumeier-Atelier Bremen

Part of "Kunst im öffentlichen Raum Hamburg", funded by the Behörde für Kultur und Medien Hamburg (BKM).

Fotos: Fred Dott