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In a world characterized by the harrowing aftereffects of wars in regions such as Gaza and Ukraine, art stands as a beacon of hope and a medium for grappling with these traumas. The Albertina gallery retrospective, which is set to run from October 23 to February 11, 2024, showcases a compelling collection of over 40 of Helnwein’s artworks spanning three decades.
Gottfried Helnwein, a prominent Austrian artist, emphasized a sentiment of despair during the inauguration of a retrospective exhibition at Vienna’s esteemed Albertina gallery. The artist remarked, “What is taking place is depressing,” reflecting on the current global climate. His reputation, cemented by collaborations with renowned figures like Marilyn Manson and the Rolling Stones, is characterized by his riveting, photo-realistic paintings. These works often illustrate the graphic violence, unchecked power and torment meted out to innocent children.
“There is no limit to what people are capable of doing against someone who cannot defend themselves,” declared Helnwein, drawing upon the dark echoes of his nation’s history. He passionately stated, “When I see a child, in the current wars, wounded, crying or dying, it affects me.” Further emphasizing the universality of suffering, he added, “The question (of) whether it is an Israeli or a Palestinian, a Ukrainian or a Russian child becomes superfluous,” as it pertains to “a human being who certainly does not deserve this.”
Helnwein’s artistry consistently places the child as a pivotal symbol, representing both human fragility and resilience. This child stands emblematic of the inherent vulnerability and potential strength that exists, contingent on the justice meted out by adults. Although primarily known for his paintings, Helnwein’s extensive oeuvre encompasses performances, photography and notable collaborations with figures in the music industry such as the American musician Manson and the German metal ensemble, Rammstein.
Born in post-war Vienna in 1948, Helnwein’s formative years were overshadowed by the memories of the Nazi regime. Reflecting on this period, he observed, “Vienna faced significant challenges after the war. Everything was grey and black, people were unfriendly.” He elucidated on the repressive post-war milieu, commenting on how “history is simply not without consequences.” In response to the oppressive historical legacy, Helnwein noticed the emergence of “very aggressive, rebellious art” in Vienna, as post-war artists sought to challenge and critique the preceding generation’s actions. The artist’s own deep exploration into the past directed his attention particularly towards acts of cruelty against the most vulnerable, notably children and women.
“I knew that the only way out for me to approach this subject was art,” he elucidated. A marker of success for Helnwein is the emotional resonance of his artwork. He posits that his creations reach completion only when they evoke profound feelings in their viewers.
With AFP