GESAMTKUNSTWERK, featuring Jesse Amado, runs October 4, 2018-January 6, 2019. 

Artist Statement: Simply, my installation reflects my varied experiences while in residency at Künsterhaus Bethanian as a Blue Star Contemporary Berlin Resident artist. Entitled, Gesamtkunstwerk, a German term which describes a total work of art that synthesizes many different modes, things, ideas, images, and styles, very much like Berlin itself. From the cobblestones on the sidewalks, the clothes worn by the populace, the multiple walls adorned with graffiti, the top floor at the Ka De Ve department store laden with foodstuffs.

With the style of Dutch Renaissance paintings, called Gravitas, in mind; I proceeded to collect a tableau of objects and images to symbolize my Berlin experiences. A composition resulted and was displayed throughout the studio. I will proceed today (two years later) to capture the experiences gained from my direct observations and participation while in Berlin.

Thus, I present Gesamtkunstwerk.

Known for art that is conceptually based and highly formal, Amado’s practice occupies the liminal space that hovers between life and art. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, he received his BA in English from the University of Texas at Austin and his BFA and MFA from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Amado resided in both Texas and New York City for many years but has now chosen to live in his hometown full time.

Exhibition opening is on October 4, from 7-10 p.m.