Dirk Hagner, Master Printmaker

Dirk Hagner's sophisticated images use all manner of print processes, from woodcut and letterpress to relief etching and chine cole. His techniques draw from both the old and the new, fusing together to create a timeless quality in his art. Dirk holds a master's degree from the Folkwang School of Fine Arts in Germany, where he studied drawing, printmaking, photography and painting. His beautiful printed works, reminiscent of German Expressionism, are of a technique not seen very often anymore. Thank you, Dirk, for choosing to exhibit your work at Chemers Gallery!

Luft
Relief Etching and Letterpress

Growing up in Germany and now living in southern California gives Dirk a unique cultural awareness that often takes shape in his work through the use of text. Luft utilizes the German word for "air" by using it to form clouds and atmospheres in within the image. Interspersed throughout the textual landscape are words in other languages for elements related to and associated with air.

Figure 1: Tempus
Etching, Woodblock and Letterpress

Dirk's series of nudes are inspired by Carl Orff's Carmina Burana, a cantata based on a medieval collection of poetry by the same name. It's full Latin name translates to "Songs of Beuern: Secular songs for singers and choruses to be sung together with instruments and magic images." Dirk has certainly provided magic images to accompany this beautiful piece of music. He includes lyrics and text from the music with his nudes, mimicking a page from a manuscript down to minute detail. His carefully chosen paper, whether antique or new, is often intrinsic in creating his chosen effect.

Infusing an Asian influence with his personal chop marks, Dirk's work is meticulous and obviously a labor of love. Every detail of these mixed media pieces are thoroughly planned and beautifully fulfilled.

Now for a twist: The piece of Dirk's that's gotten the most attention by recent gallery visitors is NOT pictured in this blog. Visit our website or come into the gallery to view the rest of Dirk's work and try and guess which it is. The first person who guesses correctly will win a $100 gift certificate, good towards Dirk's work or anything else $200 or more in the gallery! So we can't cheat, leave your answers as a comment to this post. Let the games begin!

MORE OF DIRK HAGNER'S ART

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