Anselm Keifer, Palmsonntag

I went to see the latest exhibition of Anselm Keifer, Palmsonntag at the AGO in Toronto recently and I was very moved by his work. The first thing one notices upon entering the room is an enormous life size Palm Tree crossing the length of the room. The fact that it is resting on its side and being propped up makes it resemble an artifact from a long gone era. Having been brought up a Christian, I was familiar with the “exotic” nature of Palm Sunday. The palm tree is surrounded by mix media wall pieces that are rich in texture and meaning. Upon closer inspection you notice that he has used clay, which has begun to crack, to create the earthy tones in his work. He has also inserted a myriad of dried plant  materials such as Palm branches drenched in white ,which could be paint or porcelain slip. The effect is a rapprochement to nature that cannot be found in other mediums. This show was truly a wonder-full experience.

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