Occupant within the Space
Prepare to immerse yourself in the striking and thought-provoking world of Tadeusz, a groundbreaking artist whose work is set to captivate audiences once more at the Kunstpalast in Düsseldorf. The exhibition, opening on September 29th, spans works from the early 1960s, including the 'Sacral Space' paintings and the 'Nighthawks' series.
Tadeusz's paintings are characterised by a detached formal language and contents that can be irritating and sometimes disturbing. His depictions of animal carcasses and striking depictions of bodies and spaces have long been a notable feature of his work. The themes in his paintings include violence, death, and eros, providing a raw and powerful exploration of the human condition.
The exhibition also features Tadeusz's oversized water lily paintings and his characteristic female nudes, known for their extreme poses, which are considered among the most radical image findings of Western painting in the second half of the 20th century. Tadeusz's figures are frequently portrayed from unusual angles, adding an intriguing dimension to his already captivating art.
Felix Krämer, General Director of the Kunstpalast, emphasises the importance of the exhibition, stating, "Tadeusz's work is a testament to the power of art to challenge, provoke, and inspire. We are thrilled to bring his work back to the public's attention."
Kay Heymer, Head of Modern Art at the Kunstpalast and curator of the exhibition, notes that Tadeusz quickly established an independent style compared to the conceptually minimalist or abstract works prevalent during his studies at the Düsseldorf Art Academy. His sources of inspiration range from late Renaissance Venetian masters to the colour field painting of Ellsworth Kelly, reflecting a diverse and rich artistic background.
Tadeusz's views on women are expressed in a nearly manic productivity throughout his work. His paintings often depict women in various roles, including as a mother goddess, a beloved, an intimidating or threatening partner, and a projection surface for male fears, desires, and lusts.
The exhibition aims to shed light on Tadeusz's continued impact, a testament to the timeless nature of his art. This is Tadeusz's first exhibition in a Düsseldorf museum after a 28-year hiatus, making it a unique and exciting opportunity for both long-time fans and newcomers to immerse themselves in his world.
His paintings are often large-scale and monumental, filling the space with their raw power and emotion. Prepare to be moved, challenged, and inspired as you journey through Tadeusz's thought-provoking and groundbreaking art.
