Oliver Schäfer
Oliver Schäfer
His background
In his early childhood, at the age of 8, Oliver Schäfer attended his first drawing classes, where his artistic talent was discovered. In his youth he discovered painting for himself and took painting classes in which he learned the basics of painting and different techniques. His personal focus was on the art of impressionism, pop art and the creation of naturalistic drawings. His first exhibition experiences followed in his home town of Warstein and beyond.
His project
WDuring his art studies in Essen, Oliver became increasingly interested in portrait painting. He began his own project “Fearless Women” and has since painted women who inspire him and give him hope. A special feature of his art are the hidden quotes of the women depicted behind the individual layers of paint. In this way he shows that these women have a message and are more than just their appearance.
His commitment
For Oliver, art is more than just aesthetics. With his portraits of women, he shows his very personal social criticism and addresses topics such as racism, anti-Semitism, the climate catastrophe or violence against women. His paintings open dialogues on precisely such topics and raise awareness among viewers. This gives his art social relevance. Some of the women he has painted have already become aware of his art. For example, Iris Apfel, Marzieh Ebrahimi, Helen Caldicott and the Jane Goodall Institute have responded to his work.
His concept
Since his goal is to bring people together, Oliver makes his art accessible to the general public. Besides showing his art indoors, he regularly exhibits his works in public places or parks in order to reach people who have less access to art. Through his collaboration with the author and journalist Diana Ringelsiep, Oliver can exhibit information about the individual women in addition to his works, thus fulfilling his own educational mission.
Media
Podcast "Humming Bees"
About “Fearless Women” in Höxter with Oliver Schäfer as guest