Polke | Nauman: Drawings from the Froehlich Collection - New York - Exhibitions

Josef and Anna Froehlich, following an epiphanic visit in 1982 to Documenta 7, purchased a work by Joseph Beuys’, beginning what would become not only a close relationship with the artist, but also the seed of one of Germany’s greatest art collections. That friendship would steer them toward other German and American artists, including Sigmar Polke (1941-2010) and Bruce Nauman (b. 1941). The Froehlich’s keen eye led them to create Sammlungsblöcke – collecting high quality works by a small group of artists, representing the full range of each artist’s subject matter and media.

On display from this exceptional collection are sixteen works on paper by Polke and Nauman, presenting a unique opportunity to view the juxtaposition of these two Post-War masters. While both artists are known for their multi-media practices, this exhibition conveys the importance of drawing to each of their careers. In the accompanying exhibition catalogue, Paul Schimmel writes, “Drawing was an integral part of Polke’s practice, a ready outlet for his exceptionally adroit, diligent, humorous, and playfully brilliant mind”, while Constance Lewallen notes that “throughout Nauman’s long and multifaceted career, drawing has been a constant”.

A number of drawings by both artists have never before been exhibited in the United States and will make their U.S. debut at Eykyn Maclean.