Manfred Kielnhofers Timeguards, the Foundations newest arrivals

Manfred Kielnhofer's Timeguards, the Foundation's newest arrivals, cut imposing figures in the Cass Sculpture Foundation's woodland setting. This sinister group evokes many genres, from fantasy to mythology and the gothic, as a result of their sombre, shrouded forms. These necromantic figures, based upon the ancient theme of the 'time guardian,' depict beings from another realm who, in ancient cultures and civilisations, would have been deemed responsible for paranormal goings-on.

The human form is central to Kielnhofer's artistic practice. He is preoccupied with the body's various forms and movements which he appropriates through a number of mediums, from canvas to installations and performance works. Kielnhofer's work has been exhibited throughout his native Austria and has featured in exhibitions in New York and Miami. Timeguards represents Kielnhofer's sculptural debut in the UK.

Description

These Timeguards are the first in a series of works based upon the theme of the 'time guardian.' Kielnhofer has gone on to produce these pieces in bright and cheerful colours contradictory to their sombre forms, an unexpected juxtaposition. The series on display at the Cass Sculpture Foundation is part of his original treatment of this imagery, in forms and colours meant to evoke a mystical feeling.

These forms are meant to resemble ancient creatures from another realm, who, in ancient civilisations could have been credited with disappearances, damnations and behavioral changes. Their eerie presence certainly recalls the undesirable influence these forms might have represented.

The shrouded forms pay hommage to the works of Auguste Rodin, through their concern with character and emotion. The eerie nature of these figures derives from their vacant forms, they are at once deeply emotive and disconcerting.

Manfred Kielnhofer's Timeguards, the Foundation's newest arrivals
Kuratoren: Wilfred & Jeannette Cass