The combination of natural complexity and abstraction

The works of artist Renate Gaisser are created entirely in nature. This sets her apart from artists who sketch observations of nature and then turn them into paintings in the studio. During the painting process, Gaisser allows nature to flow into the paintings in its entirety, both consciously and unconsciously: Sounds, temperature sensations and (changing) light and weather conditions have an effect on the artworks. They do not show a photographic snapshot, but combine many views of nature from the day in one picture. »At the same time, my painting is based on tectonic thinking. In addition to the intention of depicting the plants naturalistically in their three-dimensionality, there is the observation of abstraction: the lines take on a life of their own on the two-dimensional picture surface, simultaneously becoming non-representational forms. This creates a field of tension that I want to keep in balance«, says Gaisser, explaining her work, which is created using the challenging alla prima technique.

In the exhibition Freiraum. Pleinairmalerei 2014 – 2024 (Free space. Plein air painting 2014 – 2024) at the Oberlichtsaal gallery in Sindelfingen, she is showing around 40 oil paintings and 20 watercolor sketches with a focus on aquatic plants, her current main theme. The vernissage will take place on September 26 at 7.30 pm with introductory words by art historian Dr. phil. Carla Heussler, after which the exhibition will be on display until October 26.

Renate Gaisser, who is taking part in the Art.Salon artist program, studied architecture and has been working as a freelance artist since 1997. In addition to painting, she also develops installations. Among other things, she won first prize in the 1997 Monument to Deserters competition in Stuttgart.