The Facts
On August 25, 2026, Thaddaeus Ropac gallery announced Anselm Kiefer's exhibition 'Nymphäum,' comprising 20 paintings including two large folding screens. The works explore the mythological theme of nymphs and nymphaea, blending ancient vegetation with contemporary buildings featuring gilded windows. References to Gustave Courbet and William Bouguereau appear, with thick paint application, scratches, and splashes. Female figures emerge from modern facades, marking a departure from Kiefer's earlier focus on postwar ruins.
The Signal
The exhibition signals a shift in Kiefer's late career toward mythological and art historical dialogues, integrating ancient themes with modern architecture. For collectors and curators, it underscores the artist's continued evolution and the gallery's emphasis on monumental contemporary painting. The focus on nymphs and nymphaea may also reflect a broader trend in contemporary art engaging with classical and allegorical subjects, situating Kiefer within a renewed interest in narrative and symbolism.
- Artists: Anselm Kiefer
- People: Guy Boyer, Corinna Thierolf
- Galleries: Thaddaeus Ropac
- Locations: Paris
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