Peter Nestler, the first director of the DAAD Artists-in-Berlin Program from 1965 to 1970, died in Berlin several days ago at the age of ninety-three. It was largely thanks to his initiative that the artists-in-residence program, launched by the Ford Foundation in West Berlin in 1963, continued to evolve. His involvement in culture and politics and his personal powers of persuasion are what turned the residency program into the Artists-in-Berlin Program. Tirelessly committed to “cultural and intellectual bridge-building,” his work was essential to the evolution of West Berlin and German cultural scenes. He was always emphatic that “independent, personal engagement outside of official political bodies and agreements help prepare the climate and ground for interstate relations.” Peter Nestler laid an important foundation for the Artists-in-Berlin Program and thus for local and international cultural work. The DAAD and the Artists-in-Berlin Program are deeply indebted to him for his contributions.
Quote: Peter Nestler, draft article for “Diplomatischer Kurier”, ca. 1970. Source: DAAD Artists-in-Berlin Program Archive