Hallmann, Blalla W.

(Poland, 1941 – Germany, 1997)

Blalla W. Hallmann (Wolfgang Ewald Hallmann) developed his drawing skills during adolescence. His works establish a balanced relationship between childlike imagery, fantastic creatures, torture chambers, morgues, and parodic references to art history. Hallmann is regarded as an exceptional figure within the context of post-war German art.

His practice is marked by an intense engagement with his historical moment: impasto paintings depicting mythical landscapes stand alongside scenes portraying liminal psychological experiences, giving form to the individual’s isolation in a world permeated by suspicion and envy. German history, the omnipotence of Church and State, child abuse and the oppression of children, human exploitation, malice, and violence are among the central themes of his work.