Martin Neubert depicts the human figure in a sensitive, nuanced manner, guided by respect and esteem. Directing his attention primarily to the outsiders, to the losers or the ‘clowns’ on the fringes of society, he creates expressive images of them that can evoke happiness but also sadness, awaken empathy but also disturb.
Martin Neubert depicts the human figure in a sensitive, nuanced manner, guided by respect and esteem. Directing his attention primarily to the outsiders, to the losers or the ‘clowns’ on the fringes of society, he creates expressive images of them that can evoke happiness but also sadness, awaken empathy but also disturb.
Martin Neubert is a celebrated German contemporary ceramic artist known for his sensitive and nuanced depictions of the human figure. Guided by respect and esteem, Neubert focuses on outsiders—the “losers,” “clowns,” and individuals on the fringes of society. Through his expressive figures, he evokes a broad range of emotions, including happiness, sadness, empathy, and even disturbance. His work engages the viewer, eliciting ambivalent feelings that challenge conventional perceptions.
Neubert constructs his figures like a collage, using ceramic material to express the complexity of the human condition. His passionate approach to working with clay is evident in his joy for assembling individual components together, creating unique and dynamic compositions. The resulting sculptures reflect the layered nature of the people he portrays, providing a powerful reflection of their struggles, flaws, and individuality.
With his work, Neubert boldly takes a non-conformist stance, both in terms of content and aesthetic expression. He highlights the oppressive aspects of life, rejecting traditional ideas of beauty, and instead accentuating the harsh realities faced by those on the margins of society. As Neubert stated in Ceramics Now (September 2020), “I am moved by the handicapped everyday not-heroes who try to overcome obstacles and breaks. The ‘nervous boys’ around the corner, who can’t help but be a little bit out of touch. Failures and mistakes make the final picture – the goal is a credibly formulated confidence.”
Neubert’s work gives voice to those who often go unheard, creating art that serves as a mouthpiece for outsiders, those who do not conform to societal norms.
Martin Neubert lives and works in Weimar, Germany.
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