James Rizzi: Good vibrations. Ausstellung in der Kunsthandlung Langheinz
James Rizzi: Good Vibrations. Exhibition at Kunsthandlung Langheinz
By Martina Bielen for Kunsthandlung Langheinz
James Rizzi had a clear goal: to bring a smile to the faces of those who viewed his works. He wanted to make people happy with his art, as the famous Pop Art artist mentioned during one of his last exhibitions at Kunsthandlung Langheinz. Indeed, the joy is palpable when looking at his colorful creations, radiating a unique and cheerful visual language. Kunsthandlung Langheinz presents around 100 exhibits, including originals and rare pieces, as part of the exhibition "James Rizzi: Good Vibrations." Many of his works reflect life in his beloved hometown: New York, the city of skyscrapers and yellow cabs, where he was born and passed away in 2011.
“The past is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift,” reads the caption beneath one of his paintings. Rizzi truly lived by this motto. Every morning upon waking, he looked forward to a new day filled with surprises. Life indeed held a spectacular array of special moments and opportunities for him. Gradually, the artist beautified the world around him. There was Henry Maske's boxing robe, as well as three VW Beetles. In the sky, “Happy Rizzi Birds” took flight: in 1997, he adorned a Boeing 757 for Condor's 40th anniversary. However, it was unexpected that the “Happy Bird” would only reach its destinations with delays, as passengers would board the plane only after thoroughly circling, admiring, and photographing the artwork. A banknote as an investment, the phenomenal “Happy Rizzi House” in Braunschweig, Fila sports shoes for a Deichmann collection, and miniature artworks in the form of stamps are further shining examples of his life's work.
In keeping with the exhibition title, the music academy Darmstadt will provide “good vibrations” and the right swing with a performance at the gallery. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Förderverein Darmstädter Kinderkliniken Prinzessin Margaret e.V.
Exhibition: James Rizzi: Good Vibrations Exhibition from August 26, 2016, to September 24, 2016
Opening with swing on August 26, 2016, at 7 PM, free admission, Schulstr. 10, 64283 Darmstadt, Tel. 06151/24264 www.kunsthandlung-langheinz.de/rizzi