Guardians of Time (art)

Idea and history

The "Guardians of Time" were developed by the artist Manfred Kielnhofer, who is sure that mankind is watched and protected by strange characters. The designer and photographer was always interested in the human being as model as well as a potential source of danger to mankind. In 2006 he created the first life-size "Time Guardians" to be part of the Skulpturenpark Artpark in Linz. The sculpture reminds us of a monk. The artist uses the human form as a tool, either on a canvas or in a sculpture. During the following years Kielnhofer put his time guardians in public places like in front of ancient castles, squares, old mines or in parks. They traveled to several countries and were part of many exhibitions. In his works of art Manfred Kielnhofer deals with the natural human desire for security. Thus his oeuvre reflects genuine exploration, consideration and discussion of current as well as historic moods and sensibilities of his social environment. The message is, that people should never forget that they are always watched by a power, that is stronger than mankind. In 2012 Kielnhofer designed the Mini guards, 54x36x34cm, 1 kg, as a limited edition, they are signed and made of plastic. In various colours they can be illuminated from within. One of the Mini guards was ordered by Peter Weibel for the ZKM in 2012. Guardians of Time Settle in During Art Dubai 2013. First cast bronze guardian of the art foundry Krismer. In 2014 the large-scale sculptures 220x220x220cm guardians are shown by the Festival of Lights in Berlin. The guardians are shown by the 56th Venice Biennale Of Art, Collateral Event – Personal Structures, Time Space Existence at the Palazzo Mora. First works with the glass Berengo_Studio Murano Venice. A fine empty coat was made of white Carrara marble by Studio Massimo Galleni in 2016.

Exhibitions

Publications

Press