With his face closed and looking into the distance, the Kopffigur (literal translation: Head Figure) stands up monumentally in profile on the canvas. In the 1960s, Horst Antes created this highly symbolic figure, which has since become an integral part of 20th century figurative art and the artist’s oeuvre. Among other things, it refers to the return of the human body to its basic, archetypal forms and their motivic subjectivisation. In this way, the artist aims at the sensory and subjective structure of perception, for example by emphasising a certain part of the body due to pain. The figures thus become an expression of an inner state and acquire a deep psychological dimension.
The Figur mit weißer Gesichtsmaske (Figure with a white face mask) is evidence of precisely this complexity. The white mask outlines the face and allows the figure to keep its distance, as if it were shielded and isolated from its surroundings. Although the gigantic legs and feet stand still, they suggest manoeuvrability and a constant readiness to leave the scene. The head figure devoutly holds a small white cross in his hands, and in this position also reveals a wound on the back of his hand – similar to the wounds that Jesus suffered on the cross.
The background stands out in bright and colourful abstraction from the darkly nuanced head figure. While it stands firmly on a green background, its forehead breaks through the colour boundary and rises up beyond the earth. Place and time are not recognisable. Horst Antes transforms the physiology and psychosphere of the human being, its sensual states and its relationship to the outside world, thus characterising the anatomy of the pictorial structure. In this painting, Horst Antes transforms his mystical head figure into a martyr who openly displays a willingness to make sacrifices. The anthropomorphic figure moves in a tense ambivalence between hiding and revealing. Not least, it reflects a critical perspective on the dehumanisation and isolation of the modern individual.
Tuesdays-Fridays 10 am – 4 pm and by appointment
The gallery remains closed on public holidays.
site managed with ARTBUTLER
To enable us to process your enquiry about this work, please note any special questions or requests you may have.