Jena, 07.04.2026. Two large-format oil paintings, which show the historical Jena of the 1970s, are the focus of a new cultural event. After a long time in hiding, the works of the Dresden painter Günter Tiedeken are now to be brought back into the public memory.
- What: Panel discussion for the series “DEPOTKUNST ans LICHT”
- When: Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM
- Where: StadtLab Jena, Markt, Jena
- Topic: Creation and preservation of the city paintings by Günter Tiedeken (1970/71)
Two Perspectives on the City of Light
The two large-format oil paintings were created in the years 1970 and 1971 and show the city center of that time as well as the extensive Saaleaue from special perspectives. For a long time, the artworks were hardly accessible to the public and existed in the archives. Today, the two paintings are physically separated from each other: one work is part of the art collection of the city of Jena, while the other belongs to the holdings of the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität.
Art History at StadtLab
As part of the event series “DEPOTKUNST ans LICHT,” the works of Günter Tiedeken are now to be given a stage once again. The panel discussion at StadtLab at the Markt will address, among other things, the history of the paintings’ creation, their unexpected rediscovery, and the challenges of their preservation during the period of upheaval around 1990. The organizers invite all those interested in art and the city to help bring this piece of cultural heritage back into the city’s awareness. An important detail for visitors: For conservation and logistical reasons, the sensitive original paintings will not leave their current locations for this evening.
Background: Jena in the 1970s
The early 1970s mark a decisive phase in the architectural and urban development of Jena. At the exact time Tiedeken produced his oil paintings, the face of the city changed significantly: the foundation stone for the large housing estate in Neulobeda was laid, and the striking research high-rise – today’s Jentower – was erected in the center. Artistic contemporary testimonies such as Tiedeken’s paintings therefore have not only a purely aesthetic value but also serve as important historical documents of the city’s history. The archives of the university and the city administration guard numerous such treasures, which are gradually being made accessible to the population again through formats like “DEPOTKUNST ans LICHT.”
Source:
Hidden Jena paintings come to light
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.