Felix Stöckle: New Face in Contemporary Art from Switzerland
Explore the dynamic world of Felix Stöckle, a Swiss artist whose innovative use of materials and exploration of themes like tradition, rituals, and cultural identity challenges and captivates.
Felix Stöckle: Redefining Art with Tradition and Modern Insights
Discover the captivating world of Felix Stöckle, a promising artist whose work delves into the rich tapestry of cultural traditions, political commentary, and modern societal issues.
Felix Stöckle: Chien ou Ours, 2022, Carved lime wood and painted blue, ceramic and rope, 160cm x 130cm x 30cm, HILTIBOLD, St.Gallen (CH) | Photo: Marianne Rinderknecht
Through his masterful use of diverse materials and his unique artistic voice, Stöckle invites us to explore a realm where tradition meets contemporary thought, urging a reevaluation of our cultural narratives.
In this deconstruction, the artist creates space for something new. For a poem? A love letter? They hang as framed pictures over a candyfloss-coloured chequered pattern. This type of pattern is also ambiguous: while it appears petty bourgeois on tablecloths or picnic blankets, a scarf with chequered tassels can also be an expression of resistance and rebellion , Quote from the Saaltext von Katrin Spery, PINK HAWK DOWN
Born in 1994 in Rotmonten St. Gallen, works and lifes in Biel/Bienne Switzerland, Felix Stöckle is rapidly emerging as a significant voice in contemporary art.
His work, characterized by a profound engagement with cultural traditions and the exploration of socio-political themes, bridges the gap between the past and present.
Felix Stöckle: Promising Artist in Contemporary Art from Switzerland | Photo: left to right -> Andreas Drosdz, Thalles Piaget and Felix Stöckle
Stöckle's innovative approach to using materials such as wood, glass, ceramics, and textiles not only highlights his versatility but also emphasizes the thematic depth of his pieces.
Felix Stöckle: left: GLOBI MAGAZIN 1943, 2024, Keramik geköllnert | Photo: Jerlyn Heinzen right -> Gladiatoren im Schlund, Kupfer- guss, 2023, AURA Kunstraum Düsseldorf & Enter Art Fair Kopenhagen. Photo Made by: Johannes Bend- zulla
Felix Stöckle has left an indelible mark on the art scene through his engaging solo and group exhibitions across Europe.
His current showcase, BASSSSELISK at Kunst(Zeug)Haus in Rapperswil-Jona, spans from February to August 2024 and is a highlight of this year's art calendar.
Earlier in the year, his work was also on display in PINK HAWK DOWN / MISS DMZ at KRONE COURONNE.
Holding the bird towards the sky, a kind of sacrificial offering is made and while individual rays of sunlight almost touch the ground, a helicopter flies dangerously close to it, like the myth of Icarus. There are certainly other or contradictory references to be found.
The artist is not interested in telling a particular story. Rather, through the anachronistic composition of the motifs, Stöckle creates a whole range of possible correlations that completely elude a tangible categorisation of good and evil.
-Katrin Sperry (Exerpt Text from Krone/Couronne Exhibition)
Felix Stöckle: Kunst(Zeug)haus, Rapperswil (CH) | Photo: Jerlyn Heinzen
Felix Stöckle: l.) Le tigre veut jouer, 2024, Copper electro casting, Kunst(Zeug)haus, Rapperswil (CH) 33x33 cm r.) Sssssammel Sssurium, 2024, Lime colour, coked ceramic, Kunst(Zeug)haus, Rapperswil (CH) | Photo: Andreas Drosdz
This exhibition demonstrated his keen ability to use art as a platform for global commentary. For more details on these exhibitions, you can visit Artviewer.
Felix Stöckle on Art Viewer
Beyond his exhibitions, Stickler's dedication to the arts extends to his roles in creating prints, lithographs, copper engravings, etchings, and woodcuts, realized in collaboration with Gravour Moutier and the printer & illustrator Simon Beuret, as well as at TURBO PRESS.
Felix Stöckle -> Turbo Press
As a co-founder of the screen printing workshop Turbo Press and an active member of various art organizations in Biel/Bienne, he plays a crucial role in fostering the local art community.
Project by Felix Stöckle -> Turboprops
Artistic Foundations and Philosophical Underpinnings
Felix Stöckle’s journey into art began with his studies in Fine Arts & Education at HSLU in Luzern and a foundational course in Polydesigner 3D in Zurich.
Felix Stöckle: left -> (right) Pontifika Foto Made by: Johannes Bend-zulla | right -> Pontifika & Gladiatoren im Schlund, 2023, Copper casting, 190cm & 44cm x 50cm AURA Düsseldorf / ENTER Art Fair Copenhagen (DE)/(DNK)
This education introduced him to a range of craft techniques that now define his distinctive style.
His artwork deeply explores themes of cultural identity and global influences, incorporating mythological elements and portrayals of both historical and contemporary figures.
Felix Stöckle: l.) Verre Inocent, 2024, engraved glass, Krone/Couronne, Biel (CH) r.) Salü <3<3<3, 2024, engraving on wooden Gun, Krone/Couronne, Biel (CH) | Photo: Jerlyn Heinzen
Through his straightforward yet expressive imagery, Stöckle makes strong statements that resonate widely.
Themes and Motifs: A Closer Look
Central to Felix Stöckle's art are the recurring themes of tradition, customs, and rituals.
Felix Stöckl´s art practice: Various Oven , 2022, Paper kiln for ceramics and kilned ceramics, various animal sizes, Musée jurassien des Arts (CH)
He intricately weaves elements from Celtic symbols to modern digital icons, creating a dialogue between historical artifacts and contemporary pop culture.
His exhibitions often feature items like military paraphernalia intertwined with cartoon and emoji motifs, challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of cultural symbols.
Stöckle's works transcend simple visual appeal, embodying narratives that highlight the fragility of human relationships and the unstable nature of our world.
The diverse materials he uses not only add a tactile quality to his work but also serve a deeper metaphorical purpose.
For instance, his choice to construct weapons from fragile ceramics critiques their inherent violence, subtly transforming their symbolism and inviting viewers to reflect on the contrasts between material frailty and the concepts of power and destructiveness.e, his use of fragile ceramics to construct weapons critiques their inherent violence, transforming their symbolism.
Looking Ahead: Felix Stöckle's Impact on the Future of Art
Felix Stöckle's work is steadily shaping the future of art. His unique approach blends traditional and contemporary styles, attracting attention from art lovers and critics alike.
By stirring emotions and sparking thought, Stöckle’s pieces invite us to see and think differently about the world around us.
His art not only challenges our perceptions but also engages us in essential conversations about culture, identity, and the human condition.
As he continues to innovate, Stöckle’s influence on the art world looks set to grow, marking him as a significant figure in shaping how art will evolve in the years to come.
Follow Felix Stöckle on Instagram for more artworks, projects and exhibitions or visit his Website.
Felix Stöckle Website
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