Bogside 69

Bogside 69 is a sculpture combining a granite fist held together by iron bands, positioned on Osterstrasse in central Hannover. The granite appears solid and imposing, while the metal bands function as restraints that express both power and constraint.

The sculpture was created in 1981 to commemorate Amnesty International's 20th anniversary and references the civil rights turmoil that occurred in 1969 in Northern Ireland. These historical events and the struggle for justice form the foundation of the work's message.

The granite originates from a quarry used during the Nazi era, giving the work a deep connection to human rights themes that visitors can sense when viewing it. This material history becomes visible in how the fist is carved and presented.

The sculpture stands permanently on Osterstrasse and is freely accessible to view throughout the year without any restrictions or advance planning needed. Its central location makes it easy to visit whenever you are in the area.

Artist Hans-Jürgen Breuste intentionally merged historical references with contemporary messages about human rights and justice through this work. This fusion of material, form, and meaning creates a multilayered artistic statement that bridges past and present.