Städel Museum, Frankfurt, Germany
October 14, 2023–February 4, 2024
The title of the exhibition, The Lines of Life, is a quote from Friedrich Hölderlin’s poem “To Zimmer” (1812) and refers to Victor Man’s close connection to poetry and literature. These references, as well as connections to his own life reality, are repeatedly found in his painting—for example, the individuals depicted in the portraits in the main part of the exhibition come from his family environment and circle of friends. Immersed in predominantly dark scenarios and with a contemplative gaze, the sitters are enveloped in existential heaviness. The paintings bear witness to an intense exploration of human existence and speak of the poetic as well as tragic ambivalence of life.
Victor Man: The Lines of Life is curated by Svenja Grosser, Deputy Head of the Collection of Contemporary Art, Städel Museum.
Learn more at the Städel Museum.