LITHOGRAPHS 1961–1966
PAUL WUNDERLICH

With this exhibition, we are delighted to present lithographs by Paul Wunderlich, drawn
directly from the artist’s archive in Hamburg. Wunderlich, born in 1927 near Berlin and
died in 2010 in Provence, was one of the most influential German artists of the 20th
century, renowned in particular for his surrealist and erotic works.

His artistic career began in 1947 whilst studying at Landeskunstschule Hamburg, where he
specialised in graphic design. In 1951, he became a teacher of graphic techniques at the
same school. He devoted himself to teaching engraving and lithography, demonstrating an
early talent and a deep understanding of these techniques.

His early graphic work often depicted themes of contemporary post-war German history.
Some of these works were seized by the courts and locked away for several years on
grounds of indecency. This scandal did not, however, prevent the acquisition of the series
by the MoMA New York, which obviously propelled the artist’s international career.

In 1960, he left Germany to live and work in Paris, notably at the Desjobert studio. This
experience had a profound influence on his artistic style. These years, which are the main
focus of this exhibition, were a period of experimentation for Wunderlich. He took part in
Documenta 3 in 1964 and began to explore new techniques and themes in his work.

His art, which blends contemporary and classical influences, draws on mythology and
places a strong emphasis on the human figure, death and decline, also incorporating
elements of Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

Towards the end of the 1960s, inspired by the black-and-white female nudes taken by his
wife, renowned photographer Karin Székessy, a strong erotic element emerged in
Wunderlich’s work, which he always treated with a surrealist approach.

Regarded as the foremost exponent of magical realism, his artistic legacy endures well
beyond his death. Through a unique and innovative style, supported by extraordinary print
making skills, Wunderlich left an indelible mark on the global art scene.

His works have been exhibited in major galleries and museums, such as MoMA,
Bibliothèque Nationale de Paris and British Museum. During his lifetime, he was the only
German artist to be admitted to the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris. On the eve of the
centenary of his birth, his work continues to inspire and fascinate.

This exhibition has been made possible thanks to the kind collaboration of Siegfried
Sander of the Multiple Box gallery, Hamburg.


Text: Robert Klotz