Roman Signer is a Swiss artist known for his innovative approach to sculpture and performance. He has made significant contributions to Contemporary Art through his exploration of kinetic processes and ephemeral events. If you're looking for original Roman Signer prints and editions for sale or would like to sell, request a complimentary valuation and browse our network's most in-demand works.
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Roman Signer is a Swiss artist who has been redefining the boundaries of sculpture since the early 1970s. His practice is characterised by a blend of kinetic art, conceptual approaches, and an engagement with the natural environment. Signer’s use of everyday materials, such as barrels, balloons, and fireworks, culminates in what he terms 'time sculptures', which emphasise the fluctuating nature of art.
Having studied at various art institutions, including the School of Fine Arts in Zurich and the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw, Signer developed a fascination with process-oriented art. He has lived and worked in St. Gallen since the 1970s, where he began to conduct and document self-described 'sculptural events' in the Swiss countryside. These events often involve dramatic, ephemeral actions.
Throughout his career, Signer has participated in numerous exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale and documenta. His work is celebrated for its blend of humour and poignancy, reflecting on the absurdity of human existence whilst engaging with the physicality of materials and their transformation over time.
Signer's oeuvre is rich and varied, comprising sculptures, installations, photography, and video art. One of his most notable works is Drowning (1982), a Super 8 film that captures the ephemeral nature of his artistic practice, such as the dramatic effects of explosions or the gentle movement of water. This work exemplifies his interest in the intersection of art and nature, as well as his ability to evoke emotional responses through simple yet powerful actions.
Signer's work has been exhibited extensively across Europe, North America, and Asia. His installations often explore the relationship between humans and their environment, as seen in his public interventions that merge art with everyday life. In 2016, the Kunstmuseum Basel acquired 205 of his Super 8 films, further solidifying his influence in the Contemporary Art sphere.
In addition to exhibitions, Signer's approach has earned him numerous accolades and opportunities to collaborate with various institutions. His work encourages viewers to reflect on their perceptions of time, movement, and the often-overlooked beauty of mundane objects, making him a significant figure in the evolution of Process and Conceptual Art.
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