Frank Stella: Alexej-von-Jawlensky-Preis 2022

Frank Stella's work is placed in the present, incorporating abstraction, representation, simulacrum, sign, ornament, and questions of surface and space. The publication showcases his phases in the Museum Wiesbadens collection, including early works, stripe paintings, departure into space, and the use of ornament and arabesque.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: Kerber Verlag

Frank Stella (*1936) is a contemporary artist who has continuously explored a wide range of artistic themes throughout his career. These include abstraction, representation, simulacrum, sign, ornament, surface, and space. Stella's artistic interests have remained unwavering, captivating him anew with each passing era.

The Museum Wiesbaden's collection provides a comprehensive overview of Frank Stella's artistic journey. The exhibition showcases his early works, which marked the beginning of his artistic exploration. These early pieces showcase Stella's bold use of color and geometric patterns, setting the stage for his subsequent artistic endeavors.

One of the defining characteristics of Stella's oeuvre is his use of stripes. These vertical or horizontal lines have become synonymous with his work and are often associated with minimalism. Stella's stripe paintings, which he began creating in the 1960s, are characterized by their simple yet striking compositions and their ability to create a sense of movement and depth on the canvas.

In the mid-1960s, Stella began to explore new artistic directions. He shifted his focus from the two-dimensional surface of the canvas to the three-dimensional space of sculpture. This transition marked a significant departure from his earlier work and allowed him to experiment with new materials and techniques. Stella's sculptures are characterized by their bold and abstract forms, which often incorporate elements of nature and architecture.

One of the most notable aspects of Stella's oeuvre is his use of ornament and arabesque. These decorative elements add depth and complexity to his sculptures, creating a sense of richness and beauty. Stella's ornamentation is often inspired by his travels and cultural experiences, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped his artistic vision.

In conjunction with the exhibition, the Museum Wiesbaden has commissioned several new sculptures by Frank Stella. These works serve as a contemporary commentary on Stella's oeuvre and demonstrate the continued relevance of his work. The sculptures are characterized by their bold and expressive forms, which reflect Stella's signature style and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

Overall, the Museum Wiesbaden's exhibition "Frank Stella: A Retrospective" offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Frank Stella's artistic career. Through the presentation of his early works, his stripe paintings, his departure into space, and his use of ornament and arabesque, the exhibition demonstrates the enduring influence of this influential artist on contemporary art.

Weight: 1068g
Dimension: 290 x 240 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783735608734