»Art & Comix«

Since art reflects society, the blending of visual art with comic aesthetics is only logical. Since the 1960s, artists have repeatedly questioned the boundary between »high and low art« in the context of Pop Art. Comics are a unique way of telling stories in words and pictures that is widespread in many cultures. They are universally understandable and offer plenty of scope for caricature and satire. Comic characters in works of art serve not only as references, but also as a means of exploring the human psyche and social norms. The ALBERTINA MODERN brings together numerous world-famous artists in the exhibition KAWS. Art & Comix, whose works enter into dialogue with those of KAWS, who plays a leading role in this art movement in the 21st century. The show can be seen in Vienna until September 27.

KAWS (*1971, Brian Donnelly), who is the focus of the exhibition, began as a graffiti artist in New York City in the 1990s. The crossed-out eyes of his figures have been his trademark from the very beginning. He creates sculptures, acrylic paintings, and screen prints, as well as commercial products such as toys, skateboards, and clothing. In contemporary art, KAWS has been compared to Andy Warhol because of his work that crosses the boundaries between fine art and design. For many years, the artist has been an integral part of museum exhibitions. In addition to works by KAWS, those by Jean Michel Basquiat, Katherine Bernhardt, Cosima von Bonin, Eliza Douglas, Öyvind Fahlström, Magdalena Suarez Frimkess, Futura 2000, Red Grooms, Blalla W. Hallmann, Keith Haring, Gottfried Helnwein, Isolde Maria Joham, Mike Kelley, Michaela Konrad, Brigitte Kowanz, Misleidys Francisca Castillo Pedroso, A. R. Penck, Joyce Pensato, Raymond Pettibon, Ad Reinhardt, Peter Saul, Kenny Scharf, Tschabalala Self, H. C. Westermann, Micha Wille, and Sue Williams.