Humans are the central theme in the artistic work of Richild Holt (*1941, Einöde near Villach, Austria). A combination of realistic accuracy in figurative representation and an expressive style characterizes the sensitive, honest (self-)portraits of the artist.
The faces and bodies are modeled in strong light-dark and color contrasts. The figures are set against a reduced and highly abstracted background. Emotional intensity, tense dynamics, and great intimacy characterize the portraits.
The painting process is accompanied by a close exchange between the portrayed and the artist, during which a likeness is created that captures the personality of the subject and translates it onto the canvas. Richild Holt describes these joint portrait sessions as "the most intense conversation one could imagine."
Her nudes are subtle portraits in which she achieves authenticity instead of idealized representation. In the tradition and aspiration of portrait painting since the High Renaissance, Richild Holt's works express appearance and personality. Viewers encounter an intense physicality and vulnerability. In its immediate presence, the body simultaneously represents a carrier and visible expression of experiences, emotions, and social connotations, of identity. Just like in the blue hour of the evening twilight with its melancholic atmosphere, the outer and inner aspects of the portrayed shine equally bright.
12:00 to 17:00
Hallo, ich bin Maya.
