The figures in Cornelia Schleime's latest works could be reminiscent of dreams. Associations are floating to the viewer’s mind directly. Dreams captivate us, they reflect our thoughts, our fears, and point the way to our subconscious.
The figures on Schleime's paintings all seem to be trapped in themselves, as if they were concealing dark secrets.
It seems as if their masks and capes do not allow them any free existence. They are trapped in themselves; trapped in their dreams. Their headdresses and necklaces are reminding us of weighty accessories, making liberation a forceful act. Animals are misused as hats or chains.
As is often the case with Cornelia Schleime, her oeuvre is characterized by a pasty application of acrylic and asphalt paints. Through her use of shellac and its associated surface cracks, this authentic impression is created, practically kindling the faces in her paintings to life.
Canvas works fresh from the studio as well as drawings on silk were chosen for this new exhibition.
This material, which is new to her, is used to create smaller, delicate and more delicate works in contrast to the large-format canvasses. Silk is more difficult to control as a material, but it allows her to create flowing forms.
The artistic work of the painter, who was born in East Berlin in 1953, also includes literature as well as various music- and film productions.
Cornelia Schleime is the winner of the Hannah Höch Award 2016.