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Hitler dog installation sparks controversy in Vienna

Artwork commemorates Hitler’s infamous ‘Pearl Speech’

April 9, 2024 09:03
PHOTO-2024-04-08-18-54-23[5].jpg
1 min read

An Austrian artist has sparked controversy with his latest art installation outside Vienna's renowned Burgtheater, where ten Nazi-like flags, featuring an image of his late dog named Hitler, have been hanging since Saturday evening.

The banners, dreamed up by artist Wolfgang Flatz , 71, were revealed during a ceremony, with a twist. The swastika – an outlawed symbol in Austrian and neighbouring history due to their Nazi past, has been replaced by the likeness of a Great Dane in the centre – supposedly in homage to the artist's deceased pet, which he called Hitler.

Flatz’s project commemorates Adolf Hitler's infamous "Pearl Speech" delivered 86 years ago. 

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The installation includes a recreated balcony from Vienna City Hall, where Hitler delivered his speech on the eve of the vote to annex Austria to Germany. Actress Bibiana Beglau, portraying Hitler (the dictator, not the dog), is featured on a looping LED screen on the balcony. Although it's not a live performance, the digital display reflects the scene from April 9, 1938.

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Art