Weekend House, from Capitalist Realism

Prints and Drawings

1967

Sigmar Polke
German, 1941-2010

Sigmar Polke’s use of dots duplicates the enlargement of photographic reproductions. This image represents a typical suburban residence. Devoid of any visible inhabitants, a human presence is inferred by the orderliness and familial nature of the surroundings; the empty, stage-like character of the setting motivates the viewer to insert actors and construct a narrative. The visual perspective and close proximity to the flowers, which obstruct a clear view, imbue our gaze with a voyeuristic feeling. The juxtaposition of foreground colors with a monochromatic background defines distinct planes, creating a visual tension that questions the nature of representation and perception.

Status: Currently Off View
Department: Prints and Drawings

Artist: Sigmar Polke
Title: Weekend House, from Capitalist Realism
Place: Germany (Artist's nationality:)
Date Dates are not always precisely known, but the Art Institute strives to present this information as consistently and legibly as possible. Dates may be represented as a range that spans decades, centuries, dynasties, or periods and may include qualifiers such as c. (circa) or BCE.: Made 1967
Medium: Screenprint on white wove paper
Dimensions: 59.5 × 48 cm (23 7/16 × 18 15/16 in.)
Credit Line: Purchased with funds provided by Mr. and Mrs. Robert O. Delaney
Reference Number: 1991.231.4

Block P-2

Becker, von der Osten 5

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