Arnulf Rainer Prints

Arnulf Rainer‘s limited edition prints are an integral aspect of his pioneering work in overpainting, a method of abstraction that he famously developed. Characterized by their raw drypoint marks, these abstract prints encapsulate Rainer’s profound exploration of image deconstruction and the boundaries of self-expression.

Arnulf Rainer, born in 1929 in Baden bei Wien, Austria, and currently based in Vienna, stands as a seminal figure in contemporary Austrian painting. His career, which spans over seven decades, showcases a dedication to artistic innovation and a penchant for challenging conventional norms. Rainer, mostly self-taught, has carved a unique path in the art world, often inciting both admiration and controversy. Arnulf Rainer‘s journey in the arts began with an affinity for Surrealism and its fantastic elements, which he seamlessly merged with the spontaneity and expressiveness of Art Informel. This fusion led him to explore the concept of form deconstruction in the 1950s, a pivotal period that gave rise to his most acclaimed technique: overpainting. This practice involves partially or wholly reworking existing paintings and photographs by other artists. Arnulf Rainer applies a thick, impasto style, leaving gestural, bold marks that transform these works into new creations that bear his distinct artistic signature. Through overpainting, Rainer seeks to diminish the original expression, overlaying it with his contemplative tranquility and persistent coverage. He once described his work as a quest for “the extinction of expression, permanent covering, and contemplative tranquillity.” Arnulf Rainer‘s overpaintings not only serve as a testament to his innovative spirit but also reflect his anti-establishment views. Through this technique, Rainer challenges traditional notions of artistic ownership and creation, making a bold statement in the art world.

Auction record: €750k, Ketterer, 2020

Arnulf Rainer Prints

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