Here I am again with the text for our blog. It’s been a while since my last post and now it’s easier to write, thanks to ChatGPT (and other AI buddies). đ
I have already written before about dance and painting in the text Dance on Canvas. (October 2021).
And now, something also very beautiful: Series âDance Sheetâ (1-6) by Franc Grabmayr!
Franz Grabmayr was born on December 8, 1927. and passed away on April 14, 2015 in Vienna, Austria.
He started painting at the age of 12, mostly the nature he was surrounded by growing up. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts. Supported by his wife, he left his teaching career in 1962. and devoted himself exclusively to painting.
Grabmayr was known for his expressionist style of painting. His works are often inspired by nature, especially landscapes and atmospheric conditions. He was a pioneer in Austrian post-abstract expressionism.
He is known for his energetic brushstrokes and thick layers of paint, often applied with a spatula (here you can see one picture). He used a variety of materials, including oil, acrylic and sand, to achieve texture and depth in his works.
He has had many solo and group exhibitions in Austria and throughout Europe. His works are in many public and private collections.
His work is exhibited in Vienna museum Albertina till Oct 13th 2024. There are also pictures from Series âDance Sheetâ.
Franz Grabmayr’s series of paintings “Dance Sheet (1-6)” is characterized by his unique ability to convey the movement and energy of dance through abstract forms and vibrant colors.
A few key aspects of these pictures are:
Dance Energy: Each image from the “Dance Sheet” series reflects the movements of the dancers. Grabmayr uses thick application of paint and brisk brush strokes to depict the rhythmic and dynamic elements of the dance.
Abstract Expression: Instead of accurately depicting dance figures, Grabmayr focuses on abstract forms that convey the essence of movement. These images are not direct representations of dance, but emotional and visual responses to it.
Texture: Using thick layers of paint, often applied with a knife, Grabmayr creates a rich texture that adds depth and complexity to his paintings. The texture can resemble materials such as fabric or paper in motion, further enhancing the sense of dance dynamics.
Colors: The color palette he uses varies, but often includes bright and contrasting colors that contribute to a sense of energy and vitality.
Rhythmicity: Throughout each work in the “Dance Sheet” series, a clear rhythmic component is present. The brushstrokes and color arrangement guide the viewer through the composition, much like the rhythm and movement guide the dancer through the dance.
Emotional Expression: Grabmayr uses abstraction to express the emotional side of dance. Each image carries with it a feeling of joy, passion or energy, with which the artist manages to convey not only the physical, but also the emotional aspects of dance.
The viewer is invited to intuitively connect with the images, interpreting the movements and dynamics in a personal way. Grabmayr’s paintings allow for different interpretations, as they are abstract and open to subjective interpretation.
These paintings are an example of how art can translate experiences and emotions into a visual language that speaks directly to the viewer.
Definitely I recommend that you explore the “Dance Sheet” series in more depth, by visiting relevant exhibitions or museums that own Franz Grabmayr’s works, or by viewing them online here or anywhere else on the internet.
Enjoy the beauty of these paintings!
Sources:
Franz Grabmayr / Exponate / KUNSTHAUS: KOLLITSCH
Franz Grabmayr « ALBERTINA Museum Wien
Franz Grabmayr â Aurora Art Gallery (aurora-art-gallery.com)
Pexels.com
