A R T S T A M P . D K

TORBEN EBBESEN

(DK)

Torben Ebbesen is a Danish visual artist who, throughout his long career, has not only been in constant dialogue with 20th-century art but has also explored a vast and encyclopedic field that spans religious, mythological, and scientific worldviews. His works often contain symbols and images that refer to how humanity has historically used stars, figures, and mythological motifs to make sense of the world. Ebbesen creates challenging puzzles in his objects—works that capture our attention through titles and signs, but are not necessarily easy to decipher.

His works have an immediate physical presence, where the rich character of the materials and their vital gestures seem to reach out to the audience, yet remain closed and mysterious. They invite attention but quickly withdraw in a constant movement. Their complex material combinations and strong color and surface treatments create dissonances that challenge our preconceived notions. There is no classical harmony in his works; instead, there is an anarchistic energy that opens up a new understanding of the role of art.

Ebbesen draws inspiration from a wide range of sources: from zoological museums and factory warehouses to diagrams, nature reserves, and gene banks. This extensive research and his unique approach give his works a particular energy release and a distinct expression. In his art, he works with mythological motifs such as triads, trinities, and water as a life-giving force. Rather than literally transferring these themes, he paraphrases them within a larger conceptual framework that does not immediately reveal itself.

Ebbesen has been a prominent figure on the Danish and international art scenes and has exhibited through Stalke Galleri since 1988.