Begegnung

Historically many national and subnational borders are formed by or follow natural landmarks like mountain ranges, rivers, lakes or the sea. Historically these landmarks formed clearly visible boundaries, that where hard to pass obstacles to the medieval traveler. In times of strong nation-states and especially so in times of war these borders where strongly guarded making them even less permeable.

But since medieval times we have also seen the rise of larger nations reducing the total length of national borders. Trade agreements, trade unions, visa agreements and other international agreements have made international boundaries increasingly permeable. Within a political and economic union like the EU the boundaries have become nearly invisible. A small sign along the road can be the only indication of entering a different country.

Water taken from the boundary waters is used right there where the water forms a border. The interaction between artist and the force and the movement of the water define the Painting. The water itself and its constituents become a part of the painting.

The blurring, the flowing of the clear boundaries of the classical ink painting, surrendering control over the lines becomes a symbol for overcoming interpersonal and national borders. An encounter allows a boundary to dissipate: Colors with paper, humans with humans, art and culture, viewer and artist. Everything comes together. So far the project includes paintings taken from three boundary waters: From the river Rhein where it forms the border between France and Germany. From the sea of Japan that forms the border between South-Korea, China and Japan. From the River Oder where it forms the Border between Poland and Germany.