Heron Painting II is a watercolor and gouache on graph paper created by Sigmar Polke in his “miracle years” after completing his studies at the Düsseldorf Art Academy. As a German artist, Polke’s work intervened with art by using non-traditional materials and techniques to critique consumer society, confront the memory of the Nazis, and take hallucinogenic drugs.
The painting references the recent deaths of members of the Baader-Meinhof left-wing German terrorist group. The use of unconventional materials highlights Polke’s interest in unorthodox images that challenge viewers’ expectations. Additionally, he used a slide projector or episcope to superimpose photographs onto large canvases.
Heron Painting II is currently part of MoMA’s collection (accession number: 1986.297.18). All heron paintings ship within 48 hours and include a 30-day money-back guarantee. By incorporating political themes into the artwork, Polke creates an image that critiques social issues while also demonstrating his unique style through unconventional techniques and mediums.
