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Kreisbogen und Winkel

1996

Gottfried Honneger

Painted canvas on wood

Gottfried Honegger began his career as a graphic designer before devoting himself fully to painting after he met Sam Francis during his stay in New-York in 1958.  His adherence to the Art Concret is translated in his work by the use of simple geometry, a strict limitation of the number of colors, a limited variation of shapes and the use of a modular frame. The artist can entrust the combination of his assemblies in mathematical chance, by the use of a computer or the role of a dice.
Gottfried Honneger
Born in 1917
Swiss painter and sculptor.

Originally a graphic artist, Honegger devoted himself to art in 1958, choosing the style of concrete art for his painting. Features of the style are elementary geometry, strictly limited number of colours and formal elements, use of a modular base. At the same time, he worked in sculpture, making monumental pieces in cooperation with architects and urban planners.

His sculpted work is made up of a range of simple shapes that the artist puts together using a random mathematical process, by computer or by the throw of a dice. The contrast between this randomness and the fine mastery of the materials gives his sculptures a rare elegance and dignity, void of any pathos. Here, the benches with elements of seats “conversing” are a means for the artist to introduce art into life, and turning the functional act of sitting down into an aesthetic experience.

His monumental and monochrome paintings striated with white interlace demonstrate the same method of exploration of shapes and patterns.


Museum of Modern Art, New York, National Museum of Modern Art - Centre G. Pompidou, Museums of Boston, Dallas, Dortmund, Grenoble, Helsinki, Jerusalem, Marseille, Marseille, Pittsburgh, Princeton, Washington, Zurich, and many public orders.

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