Jonathan Meese

Published to accompany an exhibition at David Nolan Gallery, Jonathan Meese showcases the painting, drawing and sculpture of the German artist (born 1970). Addressing certain uneasy aspects of German political history, Meese's work adopts ideological symbols only to empty them of meaning.

Owing to their achievements as radical and unique innovators of the painting tradition, Jonathan Meese (* 1970 in Tokyo), Daniel Richter (* 1962 in Eutin, Germany), and Tal R (* 1967 in Tel Aviv) have won international recognition over the last decades. In their work, the three artists refer to established ways of seeing, while at the same time distorting, expanding, or challenging them. The humorous aspect of their art always opens the door for contemporary topics, ranging from politics, society, and self-presentation, to questions about the general significance of painting. For the exhibition Bavid Dowie, Jonathan Meese, Daniel Richter, and Tal R have teamed up for the first time, in order to work and exhibit their art together. This catalogue presents the works the artists developed jointly, as well as new pieces that were created individually. It thus not only provides a glimpse into this one-of-a-kind collaboration, but gives a good insight into where each one of the three outstanding artists stands at present. Text in English and German.