Henri Preiss
Albuquerque, NM
Visual aid for a traveling mind 2
cardboard, color paper
33" x 36" x 14"
2024
$3700
About
Henri Preiss (1973) holds a Bachelor degree in stage design studies at the Latvian Academy of Arts and a Master’s in the same specialty from the Central Saint Martins School in London (2001). After completing his studies, Preiss stayed in London, and the city became one of the influences in his work. He has had an active run in exhibitions, having had five solo shows, participated in the Prague Quadriennal (1995) and in a number of group exhibitions in Berlin, Brussels, London and New York. Notable galleries, such as Saatchi and the University of the Arts in London, as well as Zuzeum have acquired Preiss’ works. He is mentioned as one of the ‘’100 Painters of Tomorrow’’ in the list of Kurt Beers, issued by Thames & Hudson. Henri Preiss currently lives and works in New Mexico .
Artist Statement
My art often deals with the dichotomy of stability and change. I use shapes and colors to create balance, but also tension. The strict geometrical forms serve as the scaffold on which I place elements of chaos and surprise. These seemingly opposing concepts blend together in my practice, speaking to the complexity and multiplicity of life and universe. I find beauty in the paradox of harmony and discord, the mundane and the mystical, the ancient and the contemporary.
Every artwork is a dialogue between me and the observer, an invitation to explore the interplay of familiar and unfamiliar, order and chaos, material and spiritual. The engagement of the viewer is a key element of my work, and I encourage them to form their own interpretations and to engage with the piece in a deeply personal way.
My work is an exploration of visual language - a reimagining and deconstruction of recognizable shapes, colors, and patterns, translating them into an original abstract form. My purpose is to create a universal language that can be perceived and felt by any observer, regardless of cultural, temporal or spatial boundaries. This universal language takes form in a coherent and stimulating aesthetic, and my aim is to captivate and engage the viewer, to encourage them to question, to feel, and to ultimately understand the world from a unique perspective.
My approach to my work is constantly evolving, influenced by my surroundings, my experiences, and my ongoing study of art, design and nature. Through this process, I continue to strive for a unique visual voice that is both familiar yet fresh, grounded yet ethereal, tangible yet enigmatic. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.
Art from Henri Preiss in other TAAC exhibitions