Franz West

Franz West (1947–2012) grew up in post-war Vienna and moved in the city’s literary and artistic circles from a young age. He nevertheless adopted a resolutely independent stance in his work, as expressed in his sculpture by his constant exploration of the boundaries of the genre. Likewise typical of West’s art is the participating viewer: the latter is asked to participate actively in West’s sculptures, since only in this physical contact does their full function ensue:

“The perception of art takes place through the pressure points that develop when you lie on it.”

This idea is even more clearly formulated in West’s furniture sculptures. The sculptural dimension ascribed to these items of furniture by West can be experienced directly through their universal external form.

The present Onkelstuhl (“Uncle Chair”) is part of the eponymous series produced from 2001 to 2009 in West’s studio. This furniture sculpture is an individually designed unique work and was made in 2002.

In 2009 the Fondation Beyeler paid tribute to West’s work in a solo show. A number of the artist’s furniture sculptures continue to stand in the museum, where they consciously and unconsciously invite the participation of visitors.