Franz Erhard Walther

Franz Erhard Walther, Versuch eine Skulptur zu sein , 1958 / print 2010Inkjet print on photo paper, black and whiteunsigned 22 x 31.6 cm

Franz Erhard Walther, Nachzeichnung in relation to single element n°7 of 1.Werksatz, 1971, pencil on paper24.5 x 20 cm

Franz Erhard Walther, Feld und Teilung (Field and Division) Example, Single Element n°7 of 1. Werksatz, 1965,

Franz Erhard Walther, Feld und Teilung (Field and Division) Example, Single Element n°7 of 1. Werksatz, 1965, sewn dyed canvas: 100 x 80 x 0.5 cmlemp chord: ca 100 m

Franz Erhard Walther, Feld und Teilung (Field and Division) Example, Single Element n°7 of 1. Werksatz, 1965, sewn dyed canvas: 100 x 80 x 0.5 cmlemp chord: ca 100 m

 

For its first exhibition, Abraham & Wolff will be showcasing the work of the German artist Franz Erhard Walther (born 1939). Walther, who has created a fundamental body of work at the crossroads of minimalism and conceptualism, revolutionised the traditional approach to sculpture by introducing a participatory dimension into his practice. His major work, 1. Werksatz, which he developed between 1963 and 1969, consists of 58 objects designed to be manipulated by spectators-turned-users.

From amongst this exceptional ensemble, Abraham & Wolff will be presenting Element 7, Feld und Teilung (Field and Division), a work designed to be activated outdoors. In a pioneering presentation, this object will be displayed at the same time as an “operating drawing” which explains its activation protocol in the form of a detailed storyboard. These two works will be exhibited alongside a photograph of the artist discussing his first reflections on the work of art as action.