Statement
My artistic practice investigates the complex relationships between identity, memory, and transformation. Through a multidisciplinary approach that spans painting, sculpture, and installation, I explore the fluidity of human existence and the continuous interplay between the personal and the collective. Central to my work is the idea that identity is not static but rather constantly evolving, shaped by both internal and external forces, as well as by the passage of time.
I draw upon my own experiences, but I also engage with broader cultural and historical narratives, recognizing that the individual is always situated within a larger context. Themes of loss, memory, and the passage of time recur throughout my work, as I address the complexities of existence and the remnants of memory. The materials I choose often embody a dialogue between tradition and experimentation, combining conventional techniques with unconventional processes to create works that are both tactile and conceptually layered.
A central aspect of my process is the playful engagement with materials and forms. I see my studio as a space of exploration, where I gather objects, textures, and ideas in a kind of visual archive. The act of collecting becomes a way of accumulating memories, thoughts, and narratives that inform my creative practice. These collected objects and materials, often seemingly unrelated or discarded, find new life in my work, allowing me to approach the concept of transformation not only in the final piece but also in the act of gathering and re-contextualizing the everyday. The playful approach to creation allows for an openness to chance and discovery, encouraging unexpected connections and new meanings to emerge.
Through my work, I aim to create a space for reflection and contemplation, inviting viewers to engage with the work in a way that encourages them to question their own perceptions of time, identity, and change. Ultimately, my art serves as an invitation to transcend the boundaries of the individual, fostering a shared experience of transformation and understanding. I believe that art has the unique capacity to bridge divides, offering a space where we can collectively engage with the complexities of existence, both personal and universal.
Manuela Karin Knaut