Nuclear energy? No thanks!

Nuclear energy? No thanks! is the oldest in the RSAM collection. Unfortunately, it’s not in its best condition, with marks of time and new urban expressions, such as tags. Still, the draw is visible enough to understand the overall design. It’s impressive how much this wall has resisted until now without any maintenance. It mirrors the social problems and concerns of its era, during which the use of nuclear energy was a big topic of discussion. The symbol of the sun featured in the lower section was created by the Danish Anne Lund and held significance throughout Europe. It appeared on numerous platforms, not solely confined to this painting. It even served as the emblem of the protest movement. The message embedded within it reads, ‘Atoomenergie? Nee bedankt’, which translates to ‘Nuclear power? No thanks.’ This message was translated into more than 60 languages.

The artwork is located in a small corner along Bajonetstraat, somewhat concealed amid the surrounding buildings. The author is unknown, which does not showcase the technical skills of a professional muralist, suggesting that an amateur painter may have done it. The color palette is diverse, and while the technique remains unclear, the mural indicates the use of acrylic or latex paints applied with brushes.