Thomas Baumgärtel / 86-18

Thomas Baumgärtel / 86-18

Bananensprayer, action artist, classical studio painter: Thomas Baumgärtel is undoubtedly one of the most versatile artists in Germany. Thanks to his eye-catching performances and works with clear messages, he is also one of the most discussed figures in German cultural commentary. From the very beginning of his career, Thomas Baumgärtel has taken a stand, shown conviction, and fought for artistic freedom. 30works now dedicates a major retrospective to the Cologne-based artist with 86-18. The exhibition highlights the key milestones of his extraordinary artistic journey and presents works that have rarely or never been shown before, spanning four decades of his creative output. The exhibition begins with Baumgärtel's first series, "Medizinischer Block," from 1986, a collection of expressively styled head portraits seemingly inspired by anatomy. A focal point is his "Bananenkultivierung," which ranges from early banana metamorphoses to banana wisdom and banana pointillism. While the spraygrams once again showcase Baumgärtel's virtuosity as a spray artist, the "Graue Serie," including his bridge cycle from 2017, emphasizes the painterly discourse of the artist. New works shed light on his visionary mixed techniques, where he combines and further develops the styles and techniques he has created.

The laudation for Thomas Baumgärtel (who will be present) will be given by cabaret artist Jürgen Becker.

Thomas Baumgärtel - 86-18 @ 30works

Opening: Friday, March 23, 2018, 7:00 PM Laudation: Jürgen Becker Exhibition: March 23, 2018 - April 20, 2018
Tue-Fri 3-7 PM, Sat 12-5 PM, and by appointment.
30works Gallery - Antwerpener Str. 42 - 50672 Cologne - 0221/5700250