Prague
Completed

Explore the Group Exhibition 'Spodní proud': Irony, Kitsch, and Contemporary Painting Rooted in European Art History

This exhibition delves into the individual artistic approaches of Josef Bolf, Martin Eder, Jonathan Meese, and Jiří Straka.

The 'Spodní proud' exhibition explores contemporary painting and sculpture through the works of four distinctive artists. Discover how they masterfully employ exaggeration, irony, and kitsch to unveil personal vices and fears, all while drawing deeply from European art history. Experience monumental ink paintings, academic chiaroscuro, and innovative sculptural forms.

About Spodní proud at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Spodní proud at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Exhibition summary

This group exhibition features painters born around 1970 who explore themes of exaggeration, irony, and kitsch, delving into personal vices and fears. The artists utilize distinct mediums, from monumental ink paintings and academic chiaroscuro to bold sculptures, all informed by a deep knowledge of European art history.

Curatorial context

Spodní proud (Undercurrent) is a group exhibition that brings together painters born around 1970, united by their emphasis on exaggeration, irony, and a masterful command of kitsch. These artists skillfully use seemingly trivial or 'low-brow' aesthetics to reveal deeper layers of personal vices and profound fears of the unknown. Each artist employs distinct visual languages to accentuate their works' impact. Jiří Straka's classical Chinese ink paintings are presented in an unusually monumental scale, creating a stark contrast with his purely European-derived ironical themes. Martin Eder's pieces, executed with an academic, almost Old Master-like chiaroscuro, play overtly with populist taste. Jonathan Meese's sculptures brilliantly showcase a rich repertoire of sculptural games, referencing European sculpture across centuries. Josef Bolf's technically demanding paintings delve deepest into the dark layers of the unconscious and infantile memory. Collectively, these artists share a strong foundation in the deeply understood history of European culture and art, which they engage with with absolute mastery, weaving its most subtle details into their sophisticated visual dialogues.

Admission and ticket notes

The page mentions that admission is voluntary, implying visitors can contribute as they see fit. It also notes that the last entry is 30 minutes before closing time and encourages return visits if time is insufficient. Specific pricing or booking requirements are not detailed, but general information on location and transport is available via a link to the contacts page.

Spodní proud key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Spodní proud at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Venue
Galerie Rudolfinum
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
May 7, 2009 – Aug 16, 2009
Artist line / attribution
The exhibition features artists Josef Bolf, Martin Eder, Jonathan Meese, and Jiří Straka, all born around 1970.
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