CHAINS is an exhibition of new work by Franz Klainsek which addresses societal issues and illusionary boundaries; the conflict between mental entrapment and mental liberation. The exhibition is composed of Copper wall sculptures, a Chain installation, and a Performance film. Franz Klainsek introduces an oxidation process to this body of work. The process represents a commitment to transformation. The evolution of self. Patina embodies the sculptures as Franz Klainsek transcends the raw cuts within the copper plane. The work resides in depths of simplicity, while revealing a continuous transformation. A massive installation composed of hundreds of feet of chains commands the exhibition space.
“We are not mentally enslaved, we choose to be mentally enslaved. In the entrapped mind, which is easily influenced by surroundings, we become robots; we become one with the chaos of all who are mentally enslaved. We loose the power of decision, creativity becomes nonexistent, and our individuality sees its demise. We no longer stand distinctly, we merge as one in the crowd of a mentally conquered society. The human mind is born free; we are in charge of thoughts and experiences. In letting go of everything that is not serving us; we break free and become whole again.”
— Franz Klainsek
About Franz Klainsek
Franz Klainsek is a self-taught American artist of Cuban and Austrian descent. His work is physical and emotional -- it resides in the space between body and mind, feeling and thought. Klainsek addresses societal programming and its systematic effect on the human mind. Large scale sculptures and installations often include references to man’s struggle to find Truth within a "programmed" society. His endurance art pieces bring awareness to societal issues that "cause suffering or keep us from being free." Klainsek uses art as a vehicle to express his Truth, seeing the work as an eye opener, "an awakening", to what is overseen, rejected, or “numbed." The work is a raw and direct interpretation of Franz Klainsek’s studies of the subconscious mind and life experiences to date. Klainsek’s influences are profound while his questions remain primal and instinctive. What are we? Who are we and why are we here? A man who carves his own path. Franz is undeterred and sincere.