In the master classes of recent years, we have dealt intensively with portraiture. Of course, this was not only about anatomical or psychological questions, the formal implementation of what we saw, or problems of painting technique, but also about why the examination of human beings and their place in the world can still be at the centre of artistic activity and, in my opinion, absolutely must be. What role does art play in our time, which we perceive as so problematic? Every artist seeks their own answers to these questions. But it is precisely the exchange of ideas that offers the opportunity to open up new perspectives on one’s own world view and one’s own work. What do I want to achieve with my work? How do I deal with the tension between my own personal desire for expression and the reception by an audience? How can I formally implement my ideas in terms of content? Many course participants expressed a desire to bring pictures they are currently working on to Bad Reichenhall or to begin planned works during the course in order to discuss them with me and possibly receive inspiration or assistance derived from my own artistic work. That is what I would like to offer this time. This can involve image composition, colouring or painting technique, as well as questions of content, art historical references, iconography or the use of symbols. So there will be no set theme this time. However, the works should remain within the realm of figuration and representational art. In the course, I would like to try to respond individually to the questions and artistic offerings of the participants and support them on their way to developing their own personal style in terms of content and form.
Michael Triegel