Thomas Klingenstein
Works on Paper
16.05–31.05.2025
Opening: 16.05, 19:00
The exhibition is organized with the support and in collaboration with
Gallery Mutter Fourage, Wannsee, Berlin.
Thomas Klingenstein is an artist of remarkable versatility and expressive power. Born in 1961 in the eastern part of Berlin, the intensity and depth of his work reflect both his early experiences in the GDR opposition and imprisonment by the Stasi, as well as the influences and inspirations gathered throughout the many stages of his later life following his forced expatriation to the West. His journey led him first to Paris, where he dedicated himself to the fine arts, later to Spain and the United States, followed by extended stays and profound engagements with non-European cultures. Not least among these were long staysin Japan, where he held his first exhibitions and developed a deep artistic connection. Thomas Klingenstein is living and working in Berlin again.
Klingenstein’s large-format paper works are distinctive. They unite opposites—delicate structures with the minimal, bold colors, deep blacks, often set against monochrome backgrounds—creating a fascinating visual dynamism. This interplay of combinations generates a strong emotional impact that captivates the viewer. His mediums for painting include acrylic and watercolor, graphite and gouache, and more recently, pastels. A constant exploration of new forms of expression runs through his work. His art is characterized by a vibrant visual language addressing questions of identity, individuality, spirituality, as well as culture and history.
A central element of his art is the portrayal of people, with female figures playing an important role. Klingenstein masterfully captures psychological depth and complexity in his portraits. They are profound studies of personality and mood, often radiating a blend of dignity, strength, and subtle eroticism. A fine interplay between contemplative distance and overt performance brings individual presence and inner strength to life. An element of respect maintains a crucial measure of the unfathomable, turning the viewing experience into an ever-surprising encounter.
Thomas Klingenstein is an artist whose work exemplifies unwavering artistic dedication, with the power to surprise and captivate viewers time and time again. The solo exhibition at the Galerie Savchenko in Gdansk provides a deep insight into his artistic development and experimental spirit. The works demonstrate impressively the versatility and depth of his artistic expression.
Jens Kunath, August 2025
My first meeting with Thomas took place during the opening of an exhibition featuring Ukrainian artists at the Mutter Fourage Gallery in September 2022. From the very first moment, he stood out among the guests, radiating the aura of a true artist. He attentively examined the artworks, and his lively reactions to each piece that captured his attention were incredibly expressive. When we began to talk, the atmosphere was light and relaxed. We discussed various topics, but the moment we touched upon the issue of the contemporary Russian-Ukrainian war revealed how deeply we understand and perceive the injustice and brutality of aggressive regimes. I realized how incredibly valuable freedom is for us and its presence in our world. As I explored Thomas’s work, I was struck by his extraordinary delicacy and subtlety in approaching composition. His uniquely sensitive yet complex technique, along with the richness of themes and colors, created an unforgettable atmosphere. I was particularly captivated by the use of black in his works. At times, black becomes a key formative element that defines the entire piece. It is like a musical key that opens the subsequent measures – always significant and stable, yet simultaneously marking the beginning of everything.
Thomas Klingenstein is one of the leading artists at the Mutter Fourage Gallery – our friends and partners from Berlin. The Mutter Fourage Gallery is a cozy exhibition space located in the heart of the cultural complex in Wannsee, Berlin.The exhibition of Thomas Klingenstein’s outstanding works in our gallery is not only a wonderful opportunity, but also an important chance for collaboration between our institutions. It is a reflection of our friendship and meaningful engagement in the field of culture — both on an international level and in the sphere of human connection.
Serhiy Savchenko, April 2025
During the opening, we will have the honor of hosting young musical talents:
Viola class concert
by Dr. habil. K. Komendarek-Tymendorf, Professor at the Academy of Music
and M.A. M. Wiczyńska
Performers:
Weronika Czerżyńska, Katarzyna Wilczek, Natalia Marek, Aleksandra Lademann, Daria Zaborowska, Weronika Kosmowska, Klara Petruk, Emilia Szpiech, Sandra Bulczyńska
Program:
J.S. Bach, F.A. Hoffmeister, J.N. Hummel, G. Fauré, H. Vieuxtemps, E. Bloch, B. Dale, L. Weiner, K. Penderecki
FREE ENTRANCE
Opening:16.05.2025
exposition and artist.
Prace z wystawy:
works from the exhibition:
Prace a wystawy:
