The sculptor and painter PETER MAI, born 1952 in Germany, can be seen as the leading representative of a poetically and realistically oriented art form.  Even though it has always been there internationally, it is, particularly at the present time, asserting itself more forcefully next to other abstract currents.  His works are characterized by a deep knowledge of and training in classical idols – and this is borne out by the artisanal techniques as well as the deeper meaning behind the works.  The idea of the human form during the Antiquity and the Renaissance is reflected in the emphatically erotic design of the sculptures and paintings.

The artist is based in Vienna, Austria, and is a maverick ploughing a lone but steady furrow in the art scene.  In addition to his gallery, Peter Mai paints pictures that have peculiar subjects, hardly seen anywhere else.  There are massive male bodies as well as dolls, the former in the style of Michelangelo, that seem to want to free themselves from their heavy chains.  Totally focused on their physique, they appear to be entangled in equally expressive poses of suffering and passion.  The tension in some of the paintings which reflect the realism of the Old Masters comes from the contrast between the sweat-induced eroticism and the purposeful cool manner of painting.

Peter Mai, in true artist manner, wishes to shield himself from gazing eyes while, at the same time, wanting to introduce to the public an anachronistic and provocatively erotic art form.  This naturally poses questions as far as a society’s taste and consensus are concerned, and may at times also be at variance with current moral attitudes.

I have had an interest in this artist’s works for many years and appreciate their conceptual quality as well as his courage to show themes that are risky and daring, often forbidden or prohibited by social or religious customs.  Nevertheless, the recognition value of the above mentioned artist’s works is high – and this is perhaps the most important prerequisite for staying relevant in the art market.