Hans Lankes

Before In-between Behind

Hans Lankes works are beyond the framework of the well-known papercut in a radical, very personal and contemporary way. His works are sculptural objects, the presentation of which is inherent in an intense, immediate quality. In front of the cutouts and in the installations by Hans Lankes, the viewer finds himself in the midst of a highly aesthetic field of tension. It's about understanding reality and dream, as well as the relationship between matter and transcendence. Free experimentation and meticulous accuracy alternate and giving us opportunities to experience and interpret. Lankes is never about assertions, much more, he says, he wants to “open up spaces and expose perspectives”.
There’s always a before, an in-between and a behind.
With works that are like bodies and objects that actually create colored lights and/or dark shadows, the artist explores the room right from the walls. Depending on the light irradiation, whether in daylight or artificial lighting, the objects glance three-dimensionally. Some of the works are defined solely by their shadows, the white cardboard is visible on the white wall through its colored shadow. What is shown are vibrating constellations, transformations from the invisible to the visible.
Hans Lankes work has been shown in numerous solo and group exhibitions in galleries, museums, art associations and art institutes all over Germany as well as in Austria and France. His works are in private and institutional collections in Germany, Austria, France, Monaco, Japan and the USA.
(Regina Hoff)

What is it about your studio space that inspires you?

The studio is a working place. Inspiration is a development, it comes from the works I've done. It's like a flow, it's like a river that's never ending.

What sounds, scents and sights do you encounter while in your studio?

Because of the many trees around the building, I can see treetops - if I would look out the windows. Most of the time, however, I work in deep concentration, thinking about my art only.

What advice has had the biggest impact on your career?

Don't be stupid. Master the history of art from the past to the current present. Work in your own style only.

If you could only have one piece of art in your life, what would it be?

I'd get Albrecht Dürer's "Wing of a Blue Roller" (approx. 1500) from the Albertina Museum, Vienna.

If you weren´t an artist, what would you be doing?

I'd be a happy gallery owner or a carpenter.

What are your favourite places besides your studio?

Woods and mountains.

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