Reißobjekt 1972

Oskar Holweck created this paper artwork titled "Reißobjekt" through the act of tearing. Holweck’s process was deeply influenced by the destruction and rebuilding that characterized post-war Germany. Born in 1924, he lived through a period of immense social and political upheaval, during which traditional notions of order and structure were questioned. The repetitive patterns, interrupted by the violence of tearing, evoke a sense of both control and chaos. The whiteness of the paper could symbolize a desire for a blank slate, a fresh start after the war's devastation. The act of tearing paper is often associated with frustration or destruction, yet Holweck transforms it into a creative act. "One must grant chance its share," he stated, which might reflect a broader sentiment of surrendering to the uncontrollable forces of history, whilst also actively engaging in shaping a new reality. Ultimately, "Reißobjekt" embodies a powerful tension between destruction and creation. It speaks to the complexities of identity formation in the wake of historical trauma. It resonates with the emotional weight of starting anew, while also acknowledging the lasting scars of the past.