Michael Andrew Law: A Glittering Homage to Gerhard Richter

In the vibrant tapestry of contemporary art, certain works stand out for their ability to engage in a profound dialogue with the past while simultaneously breaking new ground. One such piece is Michael Andrew Law‘s 2018 mixed-media creation, a tribute to Gerhard Richter’s poignant “Tante Marianne“.

This monumental work, measuring 200×200 cm, is rendered with glitter, oil, and acrylic on linen canvas. It is an homage to Richter’s muted, monochromatic style, but with Law’s unique flair for playful and innovative storytelling.

A Shimmering Dialogue with History

Law’s work reimagines Richter’s original composition, preserving the familial intimacy and adding a mesmerizing layer of glitter and paint. The figures – Richter’s Aunt Marianne and his infant self – take on an otherworldly, ethereal quality.

The glitter, a material often overlooked in traditional art circles, introduces a dynamic visual element. It illuminates the canvas, shifting with the viewer’s perspective, and offers a stark contrast to the somber narrative that underpins both Richter’s original and the plot of the 2018 film “Never Look Away” (Werk ohne Autor).

Narrative Embodied in Text

The use of graffiti text across the canvas is a striking feature of Law’s piece. This text traces the history of Richter and “Tante Marianne,” forming a fragmented narrative that intertwines with the visual representation. The raw energy of the graffiti style adds a sense of urgency to the historical context.

A New Home: Italian Collection

This mixed-media tribute to Richter has found its way into a private collection in Italy. The collector, known for their discerning eye and appreciation for pieces that bridge historical periods, recognized in Law’s work a convergence of Richter’s emotional resonance and Law’s boundary-pushing aesthetic.

The Confluence of Styles

Michael Andrew Law’s 2018 tribute to Gerhard Richter’s “Tante Marianne” is a testament to the harmonious confluence of two distinct artistic styles. It beautifully encapsulates the power of art to honor the past while continually redefining the present. This piece serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of Gerhard Richter, the bold vision of Michael Andrew Law, and the timeless dialogue that can occur between artists across generations.