Otto Künzli, the renowned goldsmith, presents his much-anticipated tenth solo exhibition, titled “The Professionals,” at the prestigious Wittenbrink Gallery in Munich. Scheduled to open its doors on February 23, 2024, this exhibition promises a captivating journey into the world of contemporary jewelry artistry.
The centerpiece of the exhibition is Künzli’s iconic photographic artwork “Augenblick” from 1989, which serves as a poignant reminder of the artist’s longstanding exploration of the theme of the eye. Originally showcased in his inaugural exhibition in 1991, “Augenblick” symbolizes the depth of Künzli’s artistic evolution over the years.
Accompanying this revered piece are approximately 40 jewelry masterpieces, crafted by Künzli over the past five years. Many of these works have never been publicly displayed before, owing to the challenges posed by the global pandemic.
Among the highlights are several thematic series, including “The Diverse / The Extraterrestrial,” “Bones / Knochen,” “The Professionals,” and “Round Things,” each offering a unique perspective on contemporary jewelry design. While rooted in themes of the eye and Quidam (the title of Künzli’s 2017 exhibition), these new collections transcend conventional boundaries, exploring a diverse range of subjects and materials.
Künzli’s latest creations, characterized by their playful yet enigmatic nature, incorporate a blend of precious and non-precious materials, such as fruits and pearls, bricks and boxes, gold and jade, velvety fabric, and weathered furniture edges. The meticulous craftsmanship of these pieces is juxtaposed with their conceptual ambiguity, inviting viewers to interpret their meaning from various angles.
Born in Zurich in 1948, Otto Künzli is celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to contemporary jewelry art. His works adorn the collections of prominent institutions worldwide, including those in Amsterdam, London, Melbourne, Munich, New York, and Tokyo. Throughout his illustrious career, Künzli has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades, cementing his status as a visionary in the field.
From 1991 to 2014, Künzli served as a professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich, where he mentored a generation of aspiring jewelry artists who have since risen to prominence. His influence has played a pivotal role in establishing Munich as a hub for international jewelry design.
We are delighted to present Otto Künzli’s latest works at our flagship gallery, contributing to this year’s lineup of jewelry exhibitions during the Handwerksmesse. Join us for the exhibition opening on Friday, February 23, 2024, from 7 to 9 pm, and explore the visionary creations of one of contemporary jewelry’s most esteemed figures.