Gustav Klimt’s work was focused on the female body and eroticism. Klimt’s work is also part of the symbolism art movement of the late 19th centaury. The symbolism in his art is in relation to the gothic component of romanticism and impressionism. Which is also related to the style of literature.
Klimt is best known for the paintings of his ‘Golden Phase’. Gold and glimmering rich shades of gemstones featured strongly in Klimt’s life. Both his father and brother were gold engravers. He was also awarded the Golden order of merit from Emperor Franz Josef I for his contributions to art.
In his ‘Golden Phase’ he utilized gold leaf. His use of gold dates back to 1898. He studied gold techniques on his trips to Venice and Ravenna where they are famous for their mosaics and skilled workmanship. His work is influenced by the lavish art and culture of past civilisations e.g. Byzantine, Minoan, Egyptian and classical Greek.
The photographer Inge Prader was clearly inspired by Klimt, and so created photos which echo his work. In her piece she recreates Klimt’s “Danae”. She has started with the small and tight image and expanded the scene in the frame. Its a modern take on the old classic.
Klimt is very distinguishable by his use of gold colours and lavish tones. Prader keeps to the painting with her use of bright gold, the deep purple of the veil wrapped around the figure and the bright auburn of Danae’s hair.
What Prader does change is the frame of the image, she does this so that even the smallest details are enhanced. This is highlighted by the added factor of it being 3D and not 2D. This adds textures that before were not clearly noticed. Such as the golden rain between her legs. Which is a symbol Klimt used for the god Zeus.
I enjoy Prader’s take on this iconic painting. Her work explores a new artistic perspective, without losing Klimt’s brilliance. I feel drawn to this work as I have a love for classical history. The richness and depth of tone adds texture to the piece and you can almost feel the golden rain and mosaic tesserae.
How Art inspires Photography 