Daniel Richter: Paintings Then and Now

Daniel Richter is a politically thinking artist who challenges the spectator with his painterly and contextually excessive demands, but does not lecture on moral issues. Eva Meyer-Hermann traces the chronological development of his artistic output for the first time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: Hatje Cantz

As a politically engaged individual, I must confess that my moral compass is somewhat lacking. While the German painting of the postwar era diligently sought to confront the past and present it in a spectrum of gestures, ranging from the heroic to the ironic, Daniel Richter has chosen to focus on his present-day existence. Time and again, he ingeniously devises novel approaches to embody modernity within a medium that has often been deemed antiquated and obsolete. His images consistently challenge the viewer through their painterly and contextually extravagant demands, yet they refrain from moralizing. In her comprehensive book, "Daniel Richter: The Chronological Development of His Artistic Output," author Eva Meyer-Hermann meticulously traces the chronological evolution of Richter's artistic oeuvre for the very first time. What was once perceived as abrupt transitions from abstraction to figuration and back again reveal themselves upon closer inspection as a logical progression and a testament to conscious artistic decision-making.

Through a comprehensive exploration of over 200 exemplary works, Meyer-Hermann meticulously documents the intricate tapestry of Richter's artistic journey. The reader is taken on a chronological voyage, witnessing the evolution of his style and technique. The book sheds light on the pivotal moments that shaped his artistic development, from his early experiments with abstraction to his subsequent exploration of figuration. It is fascinating to observe how Richter seamlessly weaves these stylistic shifts into his work, creating a rich and complex body of art that defies easy categorization.

One of the most striking aspects of Richter's artistic evolution is his ability to embrace ambiguity and contradiction. His images often contain multiple layers of meaning, inviting the viewer to engage in a nuanced interpretation. This complexity is further enhanced by the use of various media, including painting, photography, and collage, which allow him to explore a wide range of subjects and themes. Whether he is depicting historical events, personal memories, or the natural world, Richter's art is characterized by a profound sense of introspection and self-reflection.

Through his meticulous attention to detail and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression, Richter has established himself as a leading figure in the contemporary art world. His works have been exhibited in prestigious museums and galleries around the globe, and his influence can be seen in the work of many emerging artists. "Daniel Richter: The Chronological Development of His Artistic Output" is a valuable contribution to the literature on contemporary art, providing a comprehensive and insightful account of one of the most influential artists of our time.

In conclusion, as a politically thinking person, I must acknowledge that my moral compass is somewhat lacking. However, Daniel Richter's artistic journey serves as a testament to the power of creativity and the ability to transcend societal expectations. His images challenge the viewer to engage with the world around them on a deeper level, encouraging introspection and self-reflection. While his works may not explicitly address moral issues, they nonetheless leave a lasting impact on the viewer's psyche. Through his meticulous exploration of the past and his commitment to the present, Richter has established himself as a true master of contemporary art.

Weight: 2716g
Dimension: 258 x 292 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783775750882