Art Gallery of Hamilton

In 2012, the AGH is presenting solo exhibitions of acclaimed artists whose works represent a singular recognizable vision. On view are three of Anselm Kiefer’s large mixed media paintings, which are unparalleled in their powerful content, negotiating the cultural residue of WWII. Kiefer has become well-known internationally for his highly textured paintings such as those on view here. Symbolic meaning is embedded throughout these pieces in his use of natural materials, numbers and text. Des Herbstes Runengespinst / The Web of Autumn Runes (2003) depicts a desolate landscape that may be interpreted as a charred battlefield, conceivably a site to be memorialized. Himmel Auf Erden / Heaven on Earth (1998) suggests a complex relationship between land, memory and spirituality. Karfunkelfee (2007) refers to a mythical fairy character while it incorporates ambiguous spiritual and geological symbols.

Born in 1945 in Germany, Kiefer studied art informally under Joseph Beuys at the Düsseldorf Academy in the early 1970s. His work has been exhibited in and is collected by major international museums. He lives and works in France.

This rare opportunity to see Kiefer’s works in Canada should not be missed.

The Art Gallery of Hamilton would like to thank Dr. Stephen Seltzer and Dr. Stuart Seltzer, as well as a private collector whose generous loans have made this exhibition possible, and Galerie Samuel Lallouz.