About the works of Angelika Kienberger

Angelika Kienberger works figuratively. An important aspect of her body of work is balance, with its multi-layered patterns of interpretation. Kienberger’s figures are finely crafted, without ever becoming too smooth. The technique is thus in harmony with the expression of the figures. They stand between fragility and stability. From this perspective, their posture deserves special attention. The figures are subtly graceful and fragile, delicate forms that maintain their balance.

What is interesting, however, is their extraordinary presence. Even though they are delicate and graceful, they still occupy the space in a noticeable way. They convey the impression that nothing can disturb their calm. They never lose their balance. This moment is evident both in the sculpture of the same name, “Balance”, and in the work entitled “Gespannt”.

The former appears solid and static due to its semicircular, massive base, but the viewer first unconsciously, then very clearly perceives that the base is only in contact with the ground at a tiny point. This should actually give the impression that the sculpture, consisting of a pedestal and a figure, could topple over at any moment. But quite the opposite is true: the woman crouches firmly and calmly on the pedestal and remains completely relaxed in her posture. Nothing shows effort, nothing shows despair.

Standing tall and “Gespannt (Tense)“ in every fiber of her body, the figure with this very title looks into the room. She is thoroughly assertive and present. And then we realize what we have long sensed: she is standing on tiptoes in what is actually a precarious position. She, too, could lose her balance at any moment, but her posture betrays no uncertainty.

Kienberger’s figures thus point to the strength of equanimity in an often unmanageable reality. Self-confident and determined, they take up their space. They become an image of self-created freedom independent of all external circumstances.

Flora Nieß
Art historian