Serious and somewhat skeptical, Johannes Heisig and his wife Barbara gaze out in the painting “Autumn Fire,” which lends its title to the exhibition. The couple are attending the annual tradition in their village at the beginning of autumn, and with this work, they not only mark the end of our spectacular anniversary year, but the painting also addresses an important aspect of the exhibition: examining the transience of things and questioning one’s own mortality are key themes in Johannes Heisig’s artistic expression. Still lifes such as “Memento Mori” or “Fish Dish” testify to a profound and sensitive engagement with existential questions. Large canvases shift perspective, and unusual framing alters our perception. Perhaps they are meant to help us give more space and attention to the small, the overlooked, the seemingly useless, the supposedly ugly. That this assistance is meaningful and enriching is demonstrated by Heisig’s fourth solo exhibition at DIE GALERIE. Besides his contemplative still lifes, this time it is numerous landscape views of southern France and Brandenburg, subtle self-portraits but also snapshots of current events that reveal the ingenious mind and skillful craftsmanship of a great talent of our time.
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