Historical background of FRITZ-ART

In 2005, an art form called FRITZ-ART was created. FRITZ-ART is the artistic transformation of specific elements of urban architecture and its historical aspects into a graphic design work.

The basis of the work is photography. With the professional view of a photographer and designer (in terms of lines, surface distribution and space partitioning of the architecture) the artist captures his motifs often from unusual perspectives. The buildings in the work often expand for the viewer. Lifted out from their usual context, Fritz Godehardt accents their architectural attractiveness and specific features. Historical pictures are included. From the accumulated material, a storybook is developed that embodies a collection of all ideas and thoughts on this subject. It is important to Fritz not to mimic reality but to enable the contemplator to gain a new perspective and experience of the known. An artistic authenticity arises that merges past, present, and future, as well as old and new.

Fritz Godehardt’s pictures undergo a complex process. Fritz forms compositions in which several picture levels, motifs, and perspectives are tied together, cross-faded, interlaced, and interlocked. From this mix, a diverse yet harmonious creation emerges. Through the use of graphic design software, the digitized photos are transformed into a final layout that can be printed on canvas or media like aluminum.

Script is an integral and distinct characteristic of Fritz Godehardt’s work. The words are not an "inscription" in the sense of being mere commentary but are independent components of the composition. As such, the content of the text stands in direct relation to the motifs.

Another artistic instrument applied to the work is high-contrast coloring. Strong, often complementary or cold-warm, colors emphasize the statement of the picture. This use of color is commonly used to accent the motifs of pop art and has actually been used in art from as early as expressionism. Ultimately, a very picturesque, soft, and plasticity-stressing effect is achieved through the coloring.

Through disintegration of stiff representativeness and natural coloring, the playful use of picture elements and structures, as well as the linkage of different motifs at different levels opens up new vistas. What is important to the people in this city? What makes them proud? What is beautiful? Fritz Godehardt’s goal is to create identification. It is about affiliation and responsibility for a place where you live, work, and which you form.

                 Annette Quast, art historian M.A.., Hattingen/Germany