Dimwit, 2018
MediumPolymer, fiberglass, lacquer, electrical components, ring light
(H x W x D)90 × 40 × 10 cm
Status
on display, room 005.1 About the workAn arm protrudes from the wall, appearing as if it belongs to an ancient statue. But instead of a magnificent torch, it carries a ring light. The light source alludes to the art of self-presentation, especially on the internet: good lighting increases reach, while brilliant staging attracts attention. The humorous and critical title Armleuchter — at once humorous and critical — plays on a German word that literally means "arm-lamp" (a wall sconce) but is also a slang insult meaning "fool" or "dimwit." It hints at how absurd the urge for visibility can seem. The work by Christian Theiss, winner of the Landsberg Prize, moves at the intersection of narrative tradition, history, craftsmanship and contemporary visual language.
AccessionAcquired in 2025 through the Landsberg Prize
Provenance2025 angekauft vom Künstler
Inventory number0.mkp.2025.1