Klaus Lutz's Enigmatic Films and Etchings Explore Universal Language and Self-Abnegation
Klaus Lutz, a Swiss artist (1940–2009), began crafting DIY stop-motion animations in his East Village kitchen after relocating to New York in 1993. His distinctive style, characterized by abrupt movements and muted grey shades, draws inspiration from Georges Méliès. Notable films such as Vulcan (2004) and Titan (2008) incorporate imagery that alludes to the Nazca Lines and Man Ray's Dust Breeding (1920). Lutz enhanced the whimsical nature of his work by projecting two pieces onto large balloons. Prior to his time in New York, he created etchings inspired by Kabbalah and the writings of Robert Walser. His 1999 documentary, The Beauty of My Island – Shooting Klaus Lutz, reflects his acceptance of absurdity and self-denial. This article was originally published in ArtReview, January & February 2015.
Key facts
- Klaus Lutz was a Swiss artist and filmmaker (1940–2009)
- He moved from Europe to New York in 1993
- Lutz created DIY stop-motion animations in his East Village apartment kitchen
- His films include Vulcan (2004) and Titan (2008)
- He projected works onto large balloons, a method he used himself
- Lutz made etchings based on Kabbalah and Robert Walser's stories before moving to New York
- He believed a universal sign language would replace speech and create a more just society
- A 1999 documentary by Frank Matter features Lutz wearing Tweety Bird boxer shorts
Entities
Artists
- Klaus Lutz
- Georges Méliès
- Man Ray
- Robert Walser
- Frank Matter
Institutions
- ArtReview
Locations
- Switzerland
- Europe
- New York
- East Village
- Arabia