A downtown survey in Göttingen has revealed sharply divided opinions among residents about graffiti scattered throughout the city. The colorful artwork adorning building facades, benches, walls, and storefronts continues to spark heated debates about whether these displays represent legitimate art or destructive vandalism.
Many Göttingen residents emphasize the artistic significance of graffiti for their city's identity. Jaschar Fardi considers the works to be beautiful art pieces that serve to refine the city's appearance. Survey participants frequently pointed to specific locations where graffiti had made positive impressions on them. While Antje and Susanne praise the graffiti at the ZHG as "really great," 21-year-old student Anna particularly appreciates the spray art near the Leine riverbank, describing the area as "beautiful."
However, other residents express reservations, criticism, or even anger about the city's graffiti presence. Jürgen and Rosa Funke, aged 80 and 84, explain with frustration: "It really bothers us on renovated buildings." They also complain that removal takes too long and describe the situation at Weender Tor as "terrible." According to the Göttingen Police Directorate, Weender Tor, along with Platz der Göttinger Sieben, represents a hotspot for registered graffiti incidents.
Another female resident voices similar concerns, stating: "It's annoying because it doesn't say anything. Just scribbles." Johannes Hug, 65, becomes irritated by "random guys displaying their egos" and raises concerns about the criminal nature of potential property damage. However, his frustration targets only unauthorized spraying, clarifying: "If it's permitted, I have no objections."
Nearly all survey participants unanimously call for the city to designate additional areas for graffiti art. "It would be cool if people who make graffiti could practice their art," comments Jaschar Fardi. Lukas Buchweitz, 23, also hopes for more controlled spraying opportunities, explaining: "Having a place for it wouldn't be bad." This becomes particularly relevant since unauthorized graffiti constitutes property damage, according to police statements.
Residents also highlight the political character of many graffiti pieces. According to Buchweitz, "Free Maja" graffiti has become increasingly visible throughout the city. One student observes that political messages have significantly increased, noting: "Those with the most extreme opinions shout the loudest – this is reflected in the graffiti, especially regarding Israel-related antisemitism." The police directorate explains that such slogans are handled by the state security commission.
For some individuals, graffiti's significance lies in the opportunity to help shape urban space and participate actively in emancipatory city life. Susanne and Antje wish for quick removal of hate-filled scrawlings. The City of Göttingen responds that political content on municipal buildings – particularly racist and sexist graffiti – gets removed promptly.
When compared to other cities, many survey participants feel Göttingen has relatively little graffiti. Anna finds it "not disturbing" in Göttingen. A couple visiting from Hesse's Wetterau district reports seeing "almost none" during their stay in Göttingen. The survey also reveals that beyond political messages, respondents haven't noticed any significant patterns or trends. This observation aligns with police and city administration reports, which have also registered consistent levels of spray activities.
