Berlin-based artist and sculptor Michael Kirch talks about the central message of his artistic work during his interview.
Michael, what makes your art special? What is it about – what are the central themes of your work?
We live in a world where we are constantly sorted into one side or the other of a dualistic divide. The moment one person encounters another, the sorting process begins: Are they masculine or feminine? Are they left or right? Are they white or black? Are they a winner or a loser? Are they car drivers or bike riders? Are they with me or against me? The list is endless.
Michael Kirch, Doodles
The prevailing assumption is that the other must fall on one side of the dualistic divide. Through my artistic work I aim to heal some of the wounds inflicted by this knife, starting with my own wounds. I aim to blunt the edge of this knife, to strengthen our innate humane forces of integration, starting with my own humanity.
Michael Kirch, Balancing act
For people interacting with my art I hope to trigger curiosity, wonder and relief. The feeling of relief grows as the dualistic divide softens and is gradually replaced by a sensation of integration. In my work, sensuality, sexuality and beauty join together as one creative healing force.
Michael Kirch, Snowwhite
As the viewer walks around the sculpture, the object and the viewer engage in a collaborative play of shyness and boldness, of being vulnerable and safe, of being seen and in hiding. This is a subconscious emotional process rather than an intellectual deliberation of the mind.
THE DEED | DAS WERK is a complementary and separately presented part of THE INTERVIEW IN|DEEDS with Michael Kirch.
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