The paper cut-out is one of the oldest art forms in the world. Its origins can be traced back to ancient China, and the diversity of its forms in different cultures is surprising. In Europe, traceable since around 1600 AD, the paper cut-out experienced its heyday in the 18th and 19th centuries, but fell largely into oblivion at the beginning of the 20th century. It was not until contemporary art that it was revived.
Markus Schmitz’s paper cut-outs, which almost always begin with a complex drawing and often reach impressive formats, demand a lot of time – both from the artist himself and from the viewer who lingers in front of the work. In this moment of pause, the fine lines and precisely cut negative surfaces unfold into a captivating narrative that takes us into a labyrinth of traces and hints.
28 June to 29 July, 2023
The paper cut-out is one of the oldest art forms in the world. Its origins can be traced back to ancient China, and the diversity of its forms in different cultures is surprising. In Europe, traceable since around 1600 AD, the paper cut-out experienced its heyday in the 18th and 19th centuries, but fell largely into oblivion at the beginning of the 20th century. It was not until contemporary art that it was revived.
Markus Schmitz’s paper cut-outs, which almost always begin with a complex drawing and often reach impressive formats, demand a lot of time – both from the artist himself and from the viewer who lingers in front of the work. In this moment of pause, the fine lines and precisely cut negative surfaces unfold into a captivating narrative that takes us into a labyrinth of traces and hints.
Artist: Markus Schmitz
For further information visit: Der Sinn der Logik | Heussenstamm