Thomas Riess

In the comprehensive monograph Wonderland, artist Thomas Riess (b. 1970), who lives in Vienna, presents works from the last seven years. Riess, who works primarily in painting and video, intensively explores the complex themes of time and reality. His works depict mystical landscapes, floating, abstract forms and disintegrating figures—all of which appear to oscillate between appearance and reality, fact and illusion, events and remembrances. His work often revolves around humankind in a society flooded by media. Faces that are often altered beyond all recognition confront the audience with fundamental questions regarding individuality and authenticity. Riess’ paintings and video art are simultaneously aesthetically pleasing yet provocative and challenging. They remind us of our own mortality and focus on existence as a constant ephemeral state of flux.