Jannis Kounellis

Jannis Kounellis (1936, Piraeus, Greece – 2017, Rome) was a pivotal figure in the Arte Povera movement, renowned for his innovative approach to painting, sculpture, and performance. He moved to Rome in 1956 and studied at the Academy of Fine Arts.

In the 1960s, Kounellis shifted from traditional painting to incorporating found objects and materials into his work. His pieces often featured street signs, stenciled symbols, and performance elements, blending painting, sculpture, and live art. His work was a key influence in the development of Arte Povera, a movement focused on using unconventional materials and methods.

Kounellis gained prominence through exhibitions such as 'Arte Povera - e IM Spazio' in Genoa in 1967 and participated in major shows including Documenta and the Venice Biennale. His work, characterized by the use of raw materials like wool, rope, and fire, continued to be influential through the 20th and early 21st centuries.

At Kunsthandel Meijer, we feature works by Jannis Kounellis. For more information or to view his art, please contact us or visit our gallery.