Hartmut Böhm

1938, Kassel,Germany

Hartmut Böhm is ranked among the leading proponent of European abstract art. His artwork based on minimalist approach, selection of unconventional materials and search for new artistic expression or aesthetic message, have influenced many of his peer artist as well as those of a younger generation.

Hartmut Böhm's artwork is categorised as constructive art, nevertheless a close connection to a minimal and conceptual art is apparent.

Each artefact contains several semantic layers of visual communication, furthermore, with the use of geometric nomenclature, a consistent reduction of used elements together with systematic methodologies creates the unique style of the artist.

Hans-Peter Riese, the curator of the exhibition approached the installation in the Gallery Závodný somewhat unconventionally. From the works that gradually originated in the artist's studio over the course of several decades, he selected those that document the relationship of the art piece to the surrounding architectural space of the gallery.

Reliefs, freestanding objects, metallic three-dimensional objects, a table composed of prior works of art or parts of them, and a nearly three-meter-high relief object Tatlin I, those are like some milestones mapping the mental path of the artist.

Although there is over fifty years of difference between some of the exhibited artworks /the oldest piece dates back to 1962, the most recent was created in 2018/ and the uninitiated viewer does not know the exact key to deciphering the methodological system in the artwoks creation process, subtle shifts and nuances in the relationship architectural space - art object are clearly visible.

The exhibition thus gains dynamism and variability, even though the installation of objects in the architectural space appear quite natural almost casual. The wall relief made of metal beams and the free-standing object made of the same material are the result of a synthesis between minimalism, a strict logical order and a systemic arrangement. Those are the elements with which Harmut Böhm works intently.

Hartmut Böhm graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Kassel / 1958 -1962, under Professor Arnold Bode, founder and curator of the exhibitions Documenta Kassel which since 1955 every five years presents international trends in the visual arts/.

Since the second part of the 60´ Hartmut Böhm has been completely concentrated on his own artwork holding solo exhibitions in Germany, Italy and other European countries. His endeavours led him to a concept Progression against infinity / 80´/, in which he is undertaking the problematic of vacation and reduction.

Since 1964, more than 70 solo exhibitions and countless group exhibitions have been organized. The works of Hartmut Böhm are represented in institutions and private collections around the world.

Last year, Harmtut Böhm celebrated his 80th birthday. He lives and works in Berlin.