Christoph Ruckhäberle (b. 1972, Germany) is known for his ability to bring scenarios to life through his expressive drawings, paintings, and prints. In a nod to the history and painting styles of the 20th century, Ruckhäberle places his figures in classical poses, domestic scenes, social situations, and gatherings. His focus on geometric patterns and shapes, as well as a vibrant use of colour, gives his otherwise traditional work a dynamic and contemporary feel. Figures dance, talk, drink, and fight; they pose in unexpected ways, creating a sense of movement and highlighting the important role that body language plays in non-verbal communication.
Each work reveals its own story, one that Christoph Ruckhäberle invites us to piece together ourselves. This openness allows us to bring our own perspectives and experiences to the work, encouraging personal interpretation.
Ruckhäberle’s work positions him at the forefront of the early 2000s revival of figurative painting. Through his unique and engaging practice, he continues to inspire and serve as a reference point for subsequent generations of artists.
Christoph Ruckhäberle is widely recognized as one of the most innovative painters of today. He has had exhibitions at Wels Stadtgalerie (Wels), Arken (Ishøj), Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Massachusetts), Sammlung Philara (Dusseldorf), Sammlung-Essl (Klosterneuburg), Museum der bildenden Künste (Leipzig) and Museo Nacional de la Estampa (Mexico City) among many others. His works can be found in numerous collections throughout Europe and North America, including the Museum of Modern Art (New York), Essl Museum – Contemporary Art (Vienna), the Rubell Family Collection (Miami) and Migros museum fur gegenwartskunst (Zurich) among others.
Ruckhäberle is the owner and founder of an arthouse cinema in Leipzig, and the founder of publishing house, Lubok Verlag. Over the last fifteen years, it become known worldwide for its art and graphic books.
