Contemporary Fine Arts is honoured to present the first posthumous solo exhibition of works by Norbert Schwontkowski (1949 – 2013). We would like to remember the artist a year after his passing with a selection of paintings from his estate, which the gallery is proud to represent.

Norbert Schwontkowski was an avid traveler throughout his entire life, who observed the world, foreign countries and the people living in them. He then, based on his notebooks in which he recorded his observations and experiences, painted from his memories. Throughout his work Schwontkowski predominantly explored issues surrounding love, death and the individual experience of existing, but also political issues and religion.

It is, however, primarily the small moments and interpersonal absurdities for which Schwontkowski had an unmistakable eye, and mostly these little stories from everyday life, through which he reflected on the big picture.

Existentialism without pathos and enigmatic humour are notable characteristics present in his work. “The secret of a good image is indeed inside it”, said Schwontkowski, “that you have a sharp mind, and therefore precise painting technique, and nonetheless allow the greatest possible space for freedom.”

Contemporary Fine Arts Galerie

Am Kupfergraben, 10
Berlin 10117 Germany
Ph. + 49 30 2887870
gallery@cfa-berlin.de
www.cfa-berlin.com

Opening hours

Tuesday - Saturday
From 10 am to 6 pm

Related images
  1. Norbert Schwontkowski, o.T., Photo: Jens Ziehe. Courtesy Contemporary Fine Arts, Berlin (detail of)
  2. Norbert Schwontkowski, "WINTERSTUDIO", 2011 Photo: Jochen Littkemann. Courtesy Contemporary Fine Arts, Berlin (detail of)
  3. Norbert Schwontkowski, "ZÜNDER", 2010 Photo: Jochen Littkemann. Courtesy Contemporary Fine Arts, Berlin (detail of)
  4. Norbert Schwontkowski, "(Schul) Ausflug", 2008 Photo: Jochen Littkemann. Courtesy Contemporary Fine Arts, Berlin (detail of)
  5. Norbert Schwontkowski, "Sopot", 2010 Photo: Jens Ziehe. Courtesy Contemporary Fine Arts, Berlin (detail of)
  6. Norbert Schwontkowski, "Church Street", 2008 Photo: Jochen Littkemann. Courtesy Contemporary Fine Arts, Berlin (detail of)