Series of works: Children's Land

The series of paintings “Children’s Land” explores childhood—a phase of life in which play creates its own worlds and in which children love, argue, and fight with missionary zeal. Dressing up and role-playing unfold in an environment shaped not only by childlike imagination but also by the clear influence of adults. The depicted situations appear harmless at first glance, yet they contain a multitude of subtle allusions.

The series originated from an idea by Professor Una H. Moehrke of Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design. She encouraged me to delve more deeply into a theme directly connected to my own biography—only in this way, she argued, could the paintings gain depth and transcend mere arbitrariness. I chose to focus on my prematurely ended childhood and the indoctrination of my youth.

The theme of “Children’s Land” remains a constant presence in my artistic practice. The works are created as painted collages: I incorporate elements from my own life and playfully assemble them into a childlike world. Just like when building with colorful stones, a unique reality emerges, and I want to share the joy of creating it.

Owl, fool, sailor, ships, castles and gardens – each of these motifs carries a personal meaning and refers to stages of my life.