Jean Schmiedel (b.1963 | Germany) responds to the canon of figurative painting through multi-dimensional, almost aggressive expression of emotion. Wide, close-set eyes and lilted posture make his characters poignant and elocute an imaginary story of interaction.

Schmiedel is often described as an outsider artist, particularly in the context of his practice: he paints his canvases on the floor of his studio while standing up. His work is animated by the variety of textures, colors, and emotion he uses to render figures. He uses natural materials such as fur, pearls, feathers, and shells to bring the actions and emotions of his characters immediately to the viewer’s attention. The inclusion of small animals, particularly dogs and birds allow the artist’s figures to display a broader range of emotion. These dark, carnivorous animals are symbolic of the carnal energy that Schmiedel pours into his trade and intends audiences to recognize inside themselves.