James Rizzi - American Cookies
American Cookies: James Rizzi at Galerie 30works.
Cologne, September 30, 2010. On October 12, 2010, James Rizzi will open the exhibition "American Cookies" at Galerie 30works. Over 100 works by the legendary American pop artist will be on display. The opening reception for the exhibition begins on October 12 at 7:00 PM.
Few artists have shaped "Popular Art" as much as James Rizzi. Whether it's the Volkswagen New Beetle, stamps for Deutsche Post, or a Lufthansa Boeing 757 – whatever James Rizzi creates becomes a part of a popular Gesamtkunstwerk, just like the three-dimensional objects (3D images) he designs. It's no surprise that he has such a large fan base, including many celebrities. Artists like Otto Waalkes and Peter Maffay are among his circle of friends.
Rizzi's thoughts are focused on urban life, particularly that of his hometown, New York. The human connection, small moments of joy, tragicomic snapshots, and all the beauty of everyday life are the subjects of Rizzi's work.
What characterizes Rizzi's artistic approach to these subjects? Rizzi has a talent for telling engaging short stories. With painterly yet instinctive virtuosity, he transcends the rules of compositional color theory. He often favors intense, vibrant colors. Rizzi appreciates the use of complementary colors in close spatial proximity and enjoys placing complementary colors side by side as a contrasting element – for instance, to highlight individual scenes in a storyboard.
Rizzi's oeuvre is brimming with optimism, cheerfulness, and zest for life – often lively and spirited, at times bright and cheeky – but never without deeper meaning. His works always invite a closer look, radiating energy and encouraging viewers to immerse themselves in Rizzi's world.
James Rizzi is sharp-witted, authentic, and a co-creator of the pop art philosophy. He masterfully expands the classic pop art narrative in impressive ways, in the best traditions of pop art figures like Andy Warhol, David Byrne, or David Bowie.
Exhibition "American Cookies" from October 12 to November 28, 2010.