In his first solo exhibition in Austria, PHILIPP FÜRHOFER (Augsburg, 1982) presents paintings as well as light boxes that he calls machines of illusion. Painting on both the front and reverse sides of glass panels, the artist unfurls natural sceneries that defy unambiguous interpretation. Through a complex painting process in which layers are applied, exposed, and then covered up again, motifs representing idealized visions of nature come to overlap with elements of civilization.

FÜRHOFER incorporates logos, catchphrases, and fragmentary imagery into his romantic-looking depictions of nature to raise questions about the relationship between humans, nature, and the environment. The same tension extends into his light boxes, which are both paintings and light installations. Depending on the status of the illuminants, which alternates rhythmically, the pictorial layers within become visible or reflect their surroundings, including the viewers.

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