Arnulf Rainer – Kosmos II (violett), 2003 – Drypoint

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Drypoint on Aluminumplate

This drypoint print on an aluminum plate measures 50 x 68 cm and features an intricate composition of overlapping lines that form a dense, central core. Rainer's characteristic use of chaotic, expressive mark-making creates a dynamic and seemingly infinite "cosmic" structure, rendered in deep violet. The radiating lines evoke energy and motion, giving the impression of an explosion or a gravitational pull within an abstract space. The title Kosmos II (Cosmos II) suggests a fascination with the vastness of the universe and its mysteries, expressed through the layered, almost frenetic linework. As part of an edition of 40, this work reflects Rainer’s mastery in combining precision and spontaneity within the medium of drypoint.

Arnulf Rainer (Austria, 1929) is a pioneering artist known for his abstract informal art. He co-founded the Hundsgruppe in 1950 and developed his signature 'overpaintings,' where he layered paint over existing images, exploring themes of creation and destruction. Rainer's work often delves into the subconscious, reflecting his interest in dreams and the mystical.

Arnulf Rainer

Kosmos II (violett), 2003

Form

Limited Edition Print

Limited Edition PrintA limited edition print is one of a number of prints made at the same time from one printmaking plate. A fixed number are made and signed by the artist, indicating the printing order, using the format 1/10, meaning first of ten prints.

Medium

Drypoint

DrypointDrypoint is an intaglio printmaking technique where an image is incised onto a plate using a sharp, pointed tool, typically a needle made of metal or diamond. Traditionally, copper plates were used, but today zinc, plexiglass, or acetate are also common. Drypoint is easier for drawing artists to master compared to engraving, as the needle technique resembles drawing with a pencil rather than the more complex burin used in engraving.

Edition

Edition of 40

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Limited Edition Print

Drypoint

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Arnulf Rainer

lila Wald, 2001

Limited Edition Print

Limited Edition Print

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Only an 'almost,' a 'nearly,' is possible.
- Arnulf Rainer

Renowned for his abstract appropriation art, Arnulf Rainer is a painter and founder of the Hundgruppe (dog group) alongside fellow artists Brauer and Mikl. Rainer has recevied acclaim for his technique of ‘overpainting’ which involves him taking a pre-existing work, and painting over it, usually with gestural strokes and a heavy impasto; Wine Crucifix is one of his most notable ‘overpaintings’ - originally painted in 1957 by the artist, he decided to rework it in 1978 noting that the ‘quality and truth of the picture only grew as it became darker and darker’. Rainer was heavily inspired by the depths of the human mind and explored his own subconscious through painting with the technique of Automatism, popular among Surrealist painters – he also experimented with painting with his feet and fingers as well as exploring the effect of hallucinogenic drugs on his creativity.

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Arnulf Rainer

Kosmos II (violett), 2003

50 x 68 cm

Language & Currency

Arnulf Rainer