Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Jonathan Meese Biography
Jonathan Meese, born on January 23, 1970, in Tokyo, Japan, to a German mother and a Welsh father, is a multifaceted artist whose work spans across painting, sculpture, performance art, and installation. Meese's upbringing was marked by a significant cultural shift when he moved from Japan to Germany with his family. This transition played a crucial role in shaping his artistic sensibility and approach. Despite the initial language barrier and cultural differences, Meese's early exposure to diverse cultures fueled his creative imagination.
Meese's artistic journey began in earnest when he attended the Hochschule für bildende Künste Hamburg, where he studied under influential figures such as Franz Erhard Walther. Although he left the university without a degree, the education and mentorship he received laid the foundation for his later work. Meese's early career was characterized by his involvement in the vibrant German art scene, where he quickly gained recognition for his unique and provocative style.
Jonathan Meese's work is difficult to categorize, as it encompasses a wide range of mediums and themes. His art is known for its exploration of historical, mythical, and contemporary figures, blending elements of expressionism, actionism, and performance art. Meese's personal mythology draws from a rich tapestry of references, including legendary figures like Fantômas and Maldoror, as well as historical personalities such as Stalin. These characters serve as avatars through which Meese explores various facets of identity and power.
A central theme in Meese's work is the concept of the "Dictatorship of Art," a philosophy that champions art as the ultimate authority, transcending political and cultural boundaries. This idea is vividly expressed in his performances, where Meese often assumes the role of a charismatic leader, preaching the supremacy of art with a fervor that is both captivating and unsettling. His performances are known for their intensity and theatricality, often involving elaborate costumes and props, creating immersive experiences that challenge the audience's perceptions.
In addition to performance art, Meese's oeuvre includes an extensive body of paintings, sculptures, and installations. His paintings are characterized by their bold use of color and chaotic compositions, where historical icons and pop culture references collide in a frenzied visual language. Meese's sculptures and installations further extend his exploration of power and mythology, often incorporating found objects and materials to create enigmatic and imposing works.
Meese's art has been exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibitions worldwide, gaining him international acclaim. His work is featured in several prestigious collections, including the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Humlebæk, Denmark. Despite the controversy that sometimes surrounds his use of provocative imagery and symbols, Meese's art continues to provoke and inspire, challenging viewers to reconsider the role of art in society.
Throughout his career, Jonathan Meese has remained a defiant and visionary figure in contemporary art. His relentless pursuit of artistic freedom and his unwavering belief in the transformative power of art make him one of the most compelling artists of his generation. Through his diverse body of work, Meese invites us to imagine a world where art reigns supreme, offering a radical vision of creativity as the ultimate form of resistance and liberation.
Jonathan Meese Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
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informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
acquisitions of the art gallery.
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