Born in Cologne in 1924 under the name of Karl Heinz Hargesheimer, Chargesheimer studied graphic arts and photography at the “Kölner Werkschulen” (1943-46). From the beginning of his career, Chargesheimer pursued different artistic interests, ranging from opera, theatre, costume design and painting to photography.
While developing an extensive documentation of Cologne’s ruins in the early post-war years, the artist also worked as set designer and devoted himself to creating metal sculptures. In 1950, Chargesheimer started to experiment with abstract light graphics on photographic paper and surrealistic photomontages: pictures created by light and chemicals applied directly onto negatives or photographic paper. In the 60’s, he created kinetic light sculptures constructed from moving Plexiglas and steel elements he described as “Meditationsmühlen”.
Konrad Adenauer, Politiker, 1956
18.9 x 22.7, mount: 19.6 x 23.5 cm
Gelatin silver print
In addition to his abstract experiments, Chargesheimer explored the potential of documentary photography, which he approached in an empathetic way. He became also widely recognized for his efforts as a freelance photographer as well as his dynamic and aggressive portraits of public figures (e.g. Konrad Adenauer) and common citizens of post-war Germany.
All of Chargesheimer’s photographs have one thing in common: a dissecting, close-up view with which he photographed his subjects, whether it was a Romanesque church or a miner underground, a portrait of a wellknown personality or a Cologne backyard.
The exhibition shows a cross-section of Chargesheimer’s entire oeuvre, and at the same time depicts the diversity and development of his artistic work.
Galerie Julian Sander
Exhibition: – 6 Apr 2023
Bonner Str. 82
50677 Köln
www.galeriejuliansander.de