Elisàr von Kupffer's Klarism: A Forgotten Religion for a Changing Society
The Swiss curator Harald Szeemann once remarked on Elisàr von Kupffer's monumental painting 'Die Klarwelt der Seligen' that artistically it was not the world, 'but it is unique.' Created between 1919 and 1929, the circular painting has been housed since 1939 in the Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion, a temple building designed by von Kupffer. Von Kupffer, who also went by the name Elisarion, developed a personal religion called Klarism, intended for a society in upheaval. His esoteric writings, now largely forgotten, are surprisingly relevant today. The article, published by Monopol Magazine, explores von Kupffer's artistic and spiritual legacy, highlighting the uniqueness of his work and the contemporary resonance of his ideas.
Key facts
- Harald Szeemann described von Kupffer's main painting as 'unique' despite not being artistically world-class.
- The painting 'Die Klarwelt der Seligen' was created between 1919 and 1929.
- Since 1939, the painting has been displayed in the Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion.
- Elisàr von Kupffer also used the name Elisarion.
- Von Kupffer founded a personal religion called Klarism.
- Klarism was designed for a society in transition.
- Von Kupffer's esoteric writings are almost forgotten today.
- The writings are considered surprisingly current.
Entities
Artists
- Elisàr von Kupffer
- Harald Szeemann
Institutions
- Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion
- Monopol Magazine