Roman Signer: Travel Photos

Since the beginning of the 1970s, the renowned Swiss artist, Roman Signer, has created art which does not allow itself to be described in conventional terms. He has objectified works and actions and his reputation is based on a special interpretation of the concept of “sculpture”. He does not see sculptures as static objects, but rather malleable events affected by the elements and physical powers. In exhibitions Signer presents objects and installations like experimental set-ups or films, and photographs as documents of actions, which he has arranged in different locations and against the backdrop of changing scenery.
What has neither been exhibited nor published is his collection of “Reisefotos,” which Signer took over a 20-year period whenever he came upon a particularly interesting situation on his travels. It could be another’s arrangement of objects, involuntary participation in some event, or a snapshot, all of which correlate with his own work in some way. The situation always takes on some illustrative or narrative element and sometimes a touch of humorous irony. This publication contains an extensive selection of photographs and presents a previously unknown yet characteristic side of Signer’s work.