Tech & Rights

Slain Osijek Police Chief Josip Reihl-Kir Honored With New Mural

The mural "Rhythm of the Saints/If I have weaknesses, do not let them blind me" was painted on a deserted wall in Osijek in memory of Josip Reihl-Kir, the head of the Osijek police, who was killed in the summer of 1991 because of his peace efforts.

by Lovorka Šošić
(Image: Photo: Samir Kurtagić)
The author of the mural is renowned Croatian artist Lunar. The mural was named after a song of Paul Simon, whose record was the one that Josip Reihl-Kir last bought.

It was created on the invitation of Centre for Peace Studies, in collaboration with the Reihl-Kir family, and with the intention to preserve the memory of the three core values that Josip Reihl-Kir worked for: peace, cooperation and non-violence.

Overcoming obstacles

The mural represents a tree that breaks through the floors of the badly damaged building, and it represents a person who, with honest work and endeavor, breaks through obstacles. It is located in an abandoned building that used to be the Faculty of Agriculture, and is also the place in Osijek from which the Reihl-Kir last left alive. In addition, this was the border line during the war.

"I am aware that the living world is driven by a constant tension between good and evil, life and death, whatever you call it. The human being should be an exception there and yet it's not in most of cases. In such a world, I feel immense respect for non-violent people who live and contribute to the community, and who, in difficult moments, accept the burden that the majority ignores. Well-meaning and courageous people are a rarity in this world of incredible cruelty, manipulation, greed, carelessness and selfishness. I am aware that drawing one mural won't change much, but I'm glad if someone sees and understands the message. It is an honor to have the opportunity to create a mural dedicated to a man like Josip Reihl-Kir," said artist Lunar.
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