Manfred Kielnhofer

Description

These Timeguards are the first in a series of works based upon the theme of the 'time guardian.' Kielnhofer has gone on to produce these pieces in bright and cheerful colours contradictory to their sombre forms, an unexpected juxtaposition. The series on display at the Cass Sculpture Foundation is part of his original treatment of this imagery, in forms and colours meant to evoke a mystical feeling.

These forms are meant to resemble ancient creatures from another realm, who, in ancient civilisations could have been credited with disappearances, damnations and behavioral changes. Their eerie presence certainly recalls the undesirable influence these forms might have represented.

The shrouded forms pay hommage to the works of Auguste Rodin, through their concern with character and emotion. The eerie nature of these figures derives from their vacant forms, they are at once deeply emotive and disconcerting.