Hermann Nitsch: 20th Painting Action Vienna Secession

Hermann Nitsch, born in 1938, is a co-founder of Viennese Actionism and a pioneer of Performance Art. His world-famous painting actions have significantly contributed to the development of art post-1945. Over 90 actions have been staged, with the most recent at the Bayreuth Festival in 2021. His 20th painting action in 1987 at the Vienna Secession is his most important integrated work, symbolizing his artistic development and constituting an unrepeatable contemporary document.

Format: Hardback
Length: 108 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2022
Publisher: Kerber Verlag

Hermann Nitsch, born in Vienna in 1938, is a co-founder of Viennese Actionism and a prominent figure in the international Performance Art Movement. His renowned painting actions have left an indelible mark on the art world since the post-1945 era. To date, over 90 of these captivating performances have been staged, with the most recent ones taking place at the Bayreuth Festival in 2021, in conjunction with a new production of the opera The Valkyrie. Among these, Nitsch's 20th painting action in 1987 at the Vienna Secession stands out as a significant milestone. It represents his extraordinary artistic growth and is considered an irreplaceable contemporary document that radiates international appeal.

Nitsch's painting actions are characterized by their daring and confrontational nature. He often uses his own body as the medium, engaging in actions that are both physically and psychologically challenging. These performances often take place in public spaces, creating a sense of shock and awe among spectators.

One of the most iconic examples of Nitsch's painting actions is "The Bride of the Water God," which was performed in 1974 at the Wasserwerk in Vienna. In this performance, Nitsch dressed as a bride and submerged himself in a tank of water, symbolizing the baptism of a new life. The performance was both shocking and captivating, as Nitsch pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in art.

Another notable painting action is "The Sacrifice of Isaac," which was performed in 1980 at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. In this performance, Nitsch dressed as Abraham and sacrificed a goat, symbolizing the sacrifice of God's son. The performance was controversial and sparked debate among art critics and viewers alike.

Nitsch's painting actions have had a significant impact on the development of art since the post-1945 era. They have challenged traditional notions of what art can be and have pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. Nitsch's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary artists.

In conclusion, Hermann Nitsch is a visionary artist who has made a profound contribution to the world of art through his painting actions. His bold and daring performances have challenged the status quo and have left an indelible mark on the art world. Nitsch's work continues to inspire and provoke, and his legacy as a pioneer of Performance Art will be cherished for generations to come.

Weight: 1180g
Dimension: 290 x 250 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783735608239