group exhibition - Snow white and Hell black

09.12 - 09.01.24

Contrasts characterize the exhibition image: white versus black, wall works versus sculptures, representational images, and objects versus abstract forms. In the group exhibition “Snow White and Hell Black” nine artists present their works that use different materials to give these two colors/non-colors a primary role.

The black-and-white combination is much more than just a simple contrast between light and dark, between good and evil. It allows for open debate on many fronts, but the strength of these two colors as protagonists in art as well as in decoration and fashion is undeniable. Colors/non-colors are perceived differently in different cultures: So, in the West black refers to the dark forces and white to the divine, in the East white is the color of mourning.

Since ancient times, the color black has been closely associated with melancholy, cynicism, and death. Although it may take on sad and dark connotations in our culture, the history of this color is more complex than just his assignment. Black refers to the absence of light and is synonymous with darkness. The darkness is a constant phenomenon; it has a calming effect, like dusk or the night sky. Artist's fascination with the color black runs like a red thread through art history, as many artists are obsessed with it.

The ancient, Greek and Roman worlds used white to describe the light that shone or even ignited. In many cultures, the color is a symbol of contemplation as it suggests endless emptiness or space. It can also be explored philosophical, poetic, spiritual, or religious associations with the color white. Looked at like this, white is full of meaning.

In art, black and white have the power to create immediate tension and create “disorientation”. The two non-colors form the ends of the color wheel: white contains all colors and evokes the idea of fusion and luminous union, while black represents the absence of light. Even today we tend to associate innocence with white, while we associate the image of an underground world with black and darkness: good and evil.

The artists represented in the group exhibition “Snow White and Hell Black” have focused on the monochromatic essentiality of black and white. The properties of these colors were examined using different languages, materials, and techniques. The artists share an equal sensitivity towards these two colors/non-colors. The works of art, exhibited in white and black, show how diverse the seemingly small range of possibilities can be used.

Participating artists: Julia Bornefeld, Egon Digon, Valeria Stuflesser, Daniel Mirchev, Markus Delago, Choi Kyung Ae, Gregor Prugger, Flavio Senoner und Rupert Kreuzer

Julia Bornefeld's paintings show atmospheric, abstract landscapes that absorb the viewer into endless spheres.

Egon Digon presents his artworks worked in wood, which reveal illusory and sometimes ironic annotations.

Valeria Stuflesser addresses sensitive, current topics in her representational and abstract repertoire.

Daniel Mirchev is an artist of fine textures in which line, light and shadow are important components.

With his individual and unique art, Markus Delago stimulates the viewer to ask questions about the whole of existence.

The Korean artist Choi Kyung Ae creates a new world of art out of paper that radiates extraordinary poetry and elegance.

Gregor Prugger allows the regularity of nature to resonate in his works. Rhythmic structures report his work.

Flavio Senoner's linear compositions are characterized by slight variations that create vibrations and optical illusions in the viewer.

Rupert Kreuzer's particular incorporeal sculptures have a strong symbolism. They are new contemporary visions of the human figure.