Art with effect: May Day Relay on Lenbachplatz addresses refugee shortage

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fascination art and the fate of refugees

in the heart of Munich, between the pulsating city life and architectural masterpieces, a work of art attracts the attention of passers -by. The Billboard of the Public Art Munich program is currently presenting the haunting motif "May Day Relay" by the German-Indian artist Sandra Singh, which is exhibited until September 30th. This special art project throws a light on the tragic stories of Syrian refugees who travel across the Mediterranean.

a call for help from art

The central element of "May Day Relay" is an impressive representation of a crowded boat that is occupied by refugees. On the back of the Billboard, a quote from a pilot from the European border protection agency Frontex, which reports on an emergency signal, can be seen. Sandra Singh, who designed the work, uses this platform to attend the fate of the 70 inmates of the boat, the future of which is uncertain. "These people have the right to help and security," said the artist.

The relevance of the representation

"It is important that we deal with reality at our EU external borders," explains Singh. The artist has set itself the task of bringing out the frequently invisible tragedies of the refugees. "We live in a bladder in which many ignore the problems at these limits or not take note of." Her work allows the viewer to take a look at the painful fate of the people and thus draw attention to a fundamental social challenge.

The artwork as a wake -up call

The sea, which has many dreams and hopes, shows itself in a melancholic blue that merges with the Munich sky. "This is an absurd but important connection," says Singh. "A call for help appears over our heads while we live our daily life. This picture is a wake -up call and should remind us that we shouldn't look away."
The art project not only has an aesthetic value, but is also an appeal to the conscience of the audience.

fates in the Mediterranean

Unfortunately, the fate of numerous refugee boats often remains in the dark. "We know from many who simply disappear," warns the artist. Around 30,000 people have been drowning in the Mediterranean since 2014, and many are still missing. Hardly anyone is interested in the uncertain refugees in the humanitarian crisis, which takes place directly at the external borders of the EU. Singh underlines the importance of her art as a voice for the voiceless.

FAZIT

"May Day Relay" on Lenbachplatz is more than just a work of art; It is an important contribution to the discussion about flight and migration (invasion) in Europe. By confronting these topics, it aims to sensitize people and stimulate thought. At a time when the view of humanitarian crises is often averted, it is central to bring such views of humanity to public space.