About the Exhibition

The tomb of Emperor Maximilian I in the Innsbruck Hofkirche is one of the most important sculpture projects of the 16th century in Europe. The oversized bronze figures of the emperor's relatives and exemplars guard the cenotaph. They are not only impressive guardians, but they have also inspired subsequent generations of sculptors to engage critically with artistic expressions for many centuries.

The Tyrolean sculptor Magnus Pöhacker has also drawn inspiration from the large sculptures of the so-called Schwarzen Mander. His contemporary interpretation, aptly titled "Contextus," uses not only the technology of 3D printing but also defines the sculptural figure in the contrast between individual modules and an oversized overall presence. The movement aspect of the sculpture is recognizable both as a large, expansive overall form as well as in the specific character of its permanent change between emergence and decay. This dynamic moment, charged with particular tension by Pöhacker, is characteristic of the classically trained sculptor, who consistently places his sculptural body forms in precisely balanced spatial situations. The historical ambiance of the cloister of the former Franciscan monastery, right next to the side entrance of the Hofkirche, provides an ideal field of tension for the body and spatial movements designed by the artist.

Price Information:

Price information at https://www.tiroler-landesmuseen.at/ausstellung/contextus/

Image credit(s): Watzek, Wolfgang Lackner