German artist Anselm Kiefer is bringing his unique perspective to an upcoming exhibition in Amsterdam, where he pays tribute to Vincent van Gogh’s influence on his work. The show, titled “Sag mir wo die Blumen sind” (Ask me where the flowers are), features a collection of Kiefer’s pieces that explore themes of war, death, and the human condition.
Kiefer drew inspiration from Van Gogh during a 17-year-old pilgrimage through Europe, retracing his footsteps from the Netherlands to France. The exhibition showcases how this early experience influenced Kiefer’s artistic style, which often features dark and brooding subjects like crows and sunflowers.
The show includes some of Kiefer’s most notable works, including “The Crows” (2019) and “Sol Invictus,” which feature sunflowers in prominent roles. The installation centerpiece is a sprawling, immersive piece that combines paint-splattered clothes, flower petals, and other materials to create an emotional and philosophical experience.
Kiefer expressed his views on the rise of far-right politics in Germany, calling it “horrible.” He emphasized that his work is not anti-war, but rather a reflection of his own experiences and emotions. The exhibition aims to spark conversation about the complexities of art and war, inviting viewers to ponder the deeper meanings behind Kiefer’s thought-provoking pieces.
The show opens on March 7 at the Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, running until June 9.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/art-anselm-kiefer-van-gogh-3e19cb40816ab4187ae7515fac830f82