Self-Painting I

Künstler*in Günter Brus (1938 Ardning – 2024 Graz)

Object typePhoto
MediumFotografie auf Karton aufgeklebt
Dimensions
Darstellungsmaße: 48,7 × 38,8 cm
SignatureSign. [mit Hand] (a.d. rs. des Kartons): G. Brus (Stempel: 30. April 1985)
Inventory number8169/4
Locations Derzeit nicht ausgestellt
Günter Brus is regarded as an exponent of Viennese Actionism. “Self-Painting I” reenvisions the self-portrait in an effort to break free from the classical panel painting. Brus divides the action into the segments “Hand-Painting,” “Head-Painting,” and “Total Head-Painting.” A live audience watches as he demonstrates the possibilities of painting on his own body. The series of photographs shows a painted arm variously interacting with nails, razor blades, scissors, and a saw. The sharp-edged utensils inflict figurative wounds on the body, suggesting a process that is presumably no less painful. Sketches indicate how the action will continue: a black scar-like line will split the artist’s skull, face, and body.

Die Schastrommel 9