Stephan Balkenhol

Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac

Acquired from the above by the present owner

• Unlike freestanding sculptures, this diptych features male and female figures intricately carved in low relief, emphasizing the two-dimensional plane while retaining a sense of depth and volume
• Balkenhol employs traditional woodcarving methods, leaving visible chisel marks and natural wood grain, which highlight the material's inherent qualities and the handcrafted nature of his work
• The juxtaposition of the two figures invites contemplation on themes of duality, gender, and human connection, aligning with Balkenhol's broader exploration of individuality and universality in contemporary figurative sculpture

Stephan Balkenhol, a seminal figure in contemporary figurative sculpture, is renowned for his distinctive approach that melds traditional woodcarving techniques with modern sensibilities. In Mann & Frau (Diptychon), executed in 2019, Balkenhol presents a compelling pair of reliefs carved from wawa wood, each depicting a figure—a man and a woman—rendered in his signature style.

Unlike freestanding sculptures, these reliefs are intricately carved into flat wooden panels, emphasizing the two-dimensional plane while retaining a palpable sense of depth and volume. The figures are characterized by their stoic expressions and understated attire, elements that Balkenhol employs to evoke universality and anonymity. The visible chisel marks and natural wood grain are integral to the composition, highlighting the artist's commitment to showcasing the material's inherent qualities and the handcrafted nature of his work.

Balkenhol's choice of relief format harks back to historical artistic traditions, yet his minimalist aesthetic and focus on the 'everyman' imbue the works with contemporary relevance. The diptych format invites viewers to contemplate the relational dynamics between the two figures, exploring themes of duality, gender, and human connection.

Mann & Frau (Diptychon) exemplifies Balkenhol's ability to bridge the gap between past and present, tradition and innovation, offering a nuanced exploration of human identity through the timeless medium of carved wood.