History of origin:
‘Entrance to Paradise’ was created in the transitional phase between autumn and winter, when nature is already coming to rest but has not yet given up all its play of colours. Inspired by the architectural appearance of two almost touching vines, the painting transforms this natural formation into a symbolic passageway. It is a homage to the quiet, contemplative moments in the annual cycle of the vineyards, when the intensive work of the year is completed and the landscape is left to its own devices.

Description:
Through the targeted use of Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) with a gentle circular movement, the two main vines merge to form an organic archway, a round window into the vineyard. This technique allows the natural structure to be retained while at the same time transforming it into a symbolic form. The more restrained red colouring of the late autumn leaves is transformed by the movement into an atmospheric mist of colour that envelops the passageway. The view through this ‘window’ shows the vineyard leaning towards winter dormancy - not as a clear depiction, but as an impressionistic suggestion.

Special features:
‘Entrance to Paradise’ is unique in its symbolic condensation. While other works in the series deal with movement and colour, this image creates a clearly defined architectural reference in the midst of the natural surroundings. The resulting circle/archway appears to be a deliberate design element, although it arises entirely from the natural arrangement of the vines and the camera movement. The subtle colour palette of late autumn lends the work an understated elegance that contrasts with the more intense colours of other pieces.

Connection to the exhibition:
The work epitomises the exhibition theme ‘Between Reality & Vision’ through its transformation of an everyday vineyard motif into an almost mystical passage. It invites the viewer not only to see the visible landscape, but also to explore the metaphorical dimensions - what could be hidden behind this natural archway? The work thus symbolises the ability of art to charge familiar surroundings with new meaning.

Reference to Rheinhessen:
The typical rows of vines in Rheinhessen become more than just agricultural structures here - they form symbolic spaces that are reminiscent of the centuries-old cultural significance of viticulture in the region. The ‘Entrance to Paradise’ deliberately plays with the religious connotations of viticulture in the region, where monasteries once characterised the wine culture. At the same time, the title refers to the special relationship between Rheinhessen and its landscape - for many winegrowers, the vineyard really is a kind of earthly paradise.