Berlin's Alternative Paper Route

Berlin's alternative paper route - Papergirl - has been turning a lot of heads lately, not least the New York Times which recently reported on the adventures of the original Papergirl, Aisha Ronniger.

When postering became illegal in Berlin, Ronninger and her art school friends, who wanted only to let the public know about their art, were at a loss. Finally, Ronninger came up with a novel idea - an artistic paper route.

During each of the Papergirl events (there have been three so far), Ronninger holds an open call for contributions. Drawings, paintings, and prints are sent to her from around the world. These works are first displayed in an exhibition for two weeks, and are then, in sets of 10-15, rolled up into newspaper-style packages. The event culminates in Ronninger and a group of friends and volunteers cylcling across Berlin, much in the style of the stereotypical American paperboy, distributing free art to anyone they happen to pass on the street.

The aim of the project is not only to give the artists participating exposure, but to simply enjoy the act of giving a gift to a stranger - without expecting anything in return.

Those interested in participating in the fourth edition of Papergirl are encouraged to send in their contribution by June 17th 2009.

For more info, check out Papergirl online here.