The addition of six new pieces contributed by prominent German sculptor Rainer has given a big boost to the growth of a permanent collection of art works housed at the Centro Cultural de Ajijic (CCA).
The official unveiling of Rainer’s unique two-dimensional relief sculptures took place on Wednesday, December 10 during a reception hosted by CCA Director Efrén González.
Commenting on his singular form of artistic expression, Rainer notes that his works are technically complex and highly intellectual, created to tell stories that often reflect his inner world, a fascination with the metaphysical meaning of numbers and a personal take on modern civilization.
“Art is not decoration,” he observed in ticking off assorted reasons why his creations have limited appeal on the Mexican market. “I am not a painter and my art is much more contemporary than most of what is produced here.”
Rainer dabbled in art on the side of a long career in industrial design. He retired 2003, following a 12-year stint with Surface Deisgn + Techonology, an outfit based in Miami, Florida, specializing in producing metal graphics for high-end hotels and businesses around the globe. By then he was focused on sculpting, employing medium density fiberboard (MDF) and other media.
The largest piece now hanging at CCA is a mixed media work made of MDF with an iron patina, plaster and paint. The inscribed title “Never, Never, Never” refers to its meaning: not giving up to bouts of depression and rediscovering of happiness with a new love interest, now his spouse.
The couple left Europe in 2007 to put down roots in Ajijic. Since then Rainer has continued to sculpt and explore new techniques. In addition, he organized four major collective art shows held in the area between 2008 and 2010.
His donation to CCA has sparked commitments from Javier Zaragoza, Xill Fessenden, Maria di Paola Blum, Bruno Mariscal and other local artists to add their works to the permanent collection displayed on the walls of the lower level auditorium area.