A sculpture depicting two children holding up a globe at Lappersdorf Gymnasium in Bavaria's Regensburg district has been vandalized with "Free Gaza" graffiti, causing frustration among local residents who describe the act as "just plain mean." The defacement has sparked community concern about the politicization of public art installations at educational facilities.
The sculpture, created by artist Helmut Wolf and installed in front of the gymnasium, was designed to send a clear yet multifaceted message to students about global responsibility and unity. District Administrator Tanja Schweiger explained the artwork's significance during its presentation in 2021, emphasizing how the image of children supporting the world symbolizes the next generation's role in addressing global challenges.
The large lettering spelling out "Free Gaza" has appeared on the sculpture's base within recent days, transforming what was intended as an inspiring educational symbol into a focal point of political controversy. Local residents have expressed their displeasure with the vandalism, viewing it as an inappropriate defacement of public property that serves the educational community.
Beyond the sculpture vandalism, residents are also dealing with additional graffiti damage to a public bookcase in the area, further compounding their frustration with what they perceive as senseless acts of property destruction. The incidents have raised questions about security and respect for public installations in the community.
The timing and nature of the graffiti reflect broader tensions surrounding international political issues, but community members argue that school grounds should remain neutral spaces focused on education rather than becoming platforms for political messaging through unauthorized displays.
