Berlin once again invites you to come play with its bears.
What began as an art project for the streets of Berlin ten years ago, has evolved into a worldwide, touring celebration of tolerance and cultural diversity. The United Buddy Bears are sculptures representing the various countries of the United Nations–each bear created by an artist from the country it showcases. According to organizers, “this was the only way to ensure that the circle of United Buddy Bears become a reflection of the cultural diversity of our one world… Through varying representations of culture, history, people, landscapes, economic aspects, music and traditions, many areas of life are portrayed to make people curious about the individual countries.”
The Buddy Bears stand together hand in hand in a peaceful circle, promoting understanding among different nations, cultures and religions. Each one is unique; each one is pretty damn cute.
Since its official premiere in 2002, the art installation has appeared in 22 exhibitions and toured all 5 inhabited continents. Now they are back in Berlin, being presented on the Ku’damm, at the corner of Knesebeckstraße, through October 3.
Make friends with the Buddy Bears anytime; it’s free of charge.
(Photos courtesy of United Buddy Bears)
