Sigmar Polke, born in 1941, is known as one of the most innovative painters of the Post-war era, constantly expanding the boundaries of what “painting” is. In the 1970s, Polke began to experiment with photographic techniques, combining them with painterly ones, as he explored alternatives to canvas. He began using pigments, solvents, toxins, and resins to alter the surfaces of his works, creating screen-like “wraps” over already painted pictures. The pigments in the top layers would react to light and give off a translucent, multi-faceted luminosity. … (read more)

Sigmar Polke, born in 1941, is known as one of the most innovative painters of the Post-war era, constantly expanding the boundaries of what “painting” is. In the 1970s, Polke began to experiment with photographic techniques, combining them with painterly ones, as he explored alternatives to canvas. He began using pigments, solvents, toxins, and resins to alter the surfaces of his works, creating screen-like “wraps” over already painted pictures. The pigments in the top layers would react to light and give off a translucent, multi-faceted luminosity.

Many of Polke’s works consist of layers upon layers of fabric soaked in different lacquers. Inherent to his process is the deliberate embrace of ‘mistakes,' as the results are hardly ever predictable. It is Polke’s bold adherence to spontaneity that brings his works to life and gives them a sensual appeal. Carol Vogel quotes Polke as saying, “For me the image isn’t important, it’s the human behavior of wanting to touch it that is.”

Polke currently lives and works in Cologne, Germany.

Click here to read a profile of the artist in the New York Times

Watch a video of Polke's May 2009 exhibition at Michael Werner Gallery [via marceartvlog]:

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