Paul Chan, die Galerie (gallery) (2020). Ink on paper. Paper: 126.7 x 97.5 cm; Frame: 134.9 x 105.7 x 4.4 cm. Courtesy Greene Naftali.
Paul Chan, Spekulieren (to speculate) (2020). Ink on paper Paper: 381 x 243.8 cm each; Frames: 393.7 x 134.6 x 7.6 cm each. Courtesy Greene Naftali.
Paul Chan, der Quatsch, quatschig (nonsense, nonsensical) (2020). Ink on paper. Paper: 126.7 x 97.5 cm; Frame: 134.9 x 105.7 x 4.4 cm. Courtesy Greene Naftali.
Paul Chan, neuartig (anew) (2020). Ink on paper. Paper: 126.7 x 97.5 cm; Frame: 134.9 x 105.7 x 4.4 cm. Courtesy Greene Naftali.
‘I like drawing with my left hand because it feels as if different stakes about what matters on paper became visible to me. Maybe that’s all we’re ever looking for in making any work: new ways to see the stakes that matter.’
Paul Chan explains his approach to the drawings he has made in response to reading about Ludwig Wittgenstein’s text book, Wörterbuch, compiled through his experience teaching children in rural Austria in 1921.
As the U.K. goes back into another lockdown, we were reminded of Paul Chan’s exhibition at the end of last year. Going back to basics to re-learn how to view the world, Chan’s work draws interesting parallels to the Covid-19 pandemic that restricted so much of modern activity.
Paul Chan’s solo exhibition, Drawings for Word Book by Ludwig Wittgenstein, showed at Greene Naftali Gallery from 6 November to 19 December 2020.
Main image: Paul Chan, neuartig (anew) (2020). Ink on paper. Paper: 126.7 x 97.5 cm; Frame: 134.9 x 105.7 x 4.4 cm. Courtesy Greene Naftali.
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services