“It is the work of a radical maverick”
Nikolaus Schaffer, 2010
In order to understand Herwig Schubert’s work, it is necessary to examine his paintings, drawings and illustrations chronologically. This approach reveals the extent to which themes, artistic techniques, genres and stylistic elements in the various creative phases are linked to the artist’s personality. Furthermore, by comparing and contrasting the various genres and phases of his work, it is possible to trace the development of his oeuvre and the continuous deepening and intensification of his artistic expression.
The paintings and drawings presented here are an incomplete inventory, as Schubert did not document his completed works either photographically or in writing. There are also no complete records of the paintings and drawings that were sold. Following the comprehensive retrospective at the Salzburg Museum in 2011-2012, Schubert’s wife compiled a catalogue raisonné based on the exhibits, documented purchases by collectors and museums, research and the painter’s memories, which still has yet to be completed.
We would be delighted if the owners of works by the artist would contact us to help complete the inventory.
Thank you.
From the early beginnings to a singular, mature style of painting
The texts accompanying the groups of works are based on conversations between the artist and art historians, in particular Otto Breicha and Nikolaus Schaffer, Margarita Jonietz and Heinrich Geissler, colleagues and former students, as well as Christine Scherer, art historian, and Sigrid Hülsen-Schubert, the artist’s wife.