Patrick Graf. Soldevian Surf Shop

The artistic practice of Zurich-based artist Patrick Graf (*1981) ranges from installation and performance to drawing and painting. He always creates fantastic worlds in a very playful way, into which viewers can immerse themselves. There are two pictorial worlds in Patrick Graf’s work: On the one hand, he creates highly detailed drawings and paintings of fantasy worlds with figures from pop culture and images that he encountered in his childhood. On the other hand, he uses cardboard material to create physical environments that can also be inspired by everyday life. It is quite possible that when visiting one of the artist’s installations, viewers will suddenly find themselves among the vines of a jungle or in the middle of an archaeological site. Or even: in a surf shop.

Patrick Graf’s installation in the Thun-Panorama is intended to be accessible to everyone – whether young or old, interested in art or not. He doesn’t want to make art that’s too highbrow, but one that even children can quickly relate to.