Opening September 3, 5-8 pm

The Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac is pleased to present new works by the German artist, Imi Knoebel, from September 3rd to October 8th 2005 in Paris.

His abstract paintings are presented in groups of monochromatic, geometric panels. The paintings are unique from one another in the sense that they distinguish themselves by their variations in color and texture, leading to a subtle and sophisticated interaction. These configurations create a feeling of timelessness. Imi Knoebel’s work explores a wide variety of possible approaches to abstraction. He also infuses his work with an experimental and conceptual attitude.

« From Malevitch, his mentor, Knoebel is inspired by the notion of dematerialization, of the elaboration of pure forms based on the experience, that the Russians sought to create in the abstract environment. Whereas, Joseph Beuys, his professor at the Beaux-Arts in Dusseldorf, exposes him to the idea that matter can be a reservoir and a conduit for energy. » (…)
With Malevitch (…) Imi Knoebel found support of his taste for an emotional manipulation of geometry, as well as validation for his aspiration to create immaterial, invisible works… (…) his desire to objectify the `pure sensation, in what Malevitch called the supremacy of immaterialism.

Imi Knoebel was born in Dassau, Germany. From 1962-64, he studied applied arts in Darmstadt. Knoebel’s studies followed the theories put forth by Johannes Itten and Lászlo Moholy-Nagy of the Bauhaus movement in Weimar and Dassau. In 1964 – 71 he studied at the Staatliche Kunstakademie in Düsseldorf and studied under Beuys.

For further information concerning the exhibition or to obtain visual elements intended for publication, please contact Bénédicte Burrus at + 331 42 72 99 00 or via email at [email protected].