Robert Schreiner, born in 1965 in Zurich, Switzerland, stands as a distinguished figure in contemporary abstract painting. With a career spanning over several decades, Schreiner has established a reputation for his evocative use of light and his mastery of subtle tonal shifts, transforming each canvas into an immersive experience. His works are characterized by a delicate interplay of texture and luminosity, inviting viewers into a contemplative dialogue with the abstractions he constructs.
His deep bond with nature, especially his time spent in the wild forests and windy terrains of his homeland, greatly shapes his art. His paintings frequently reflect the rough textures of bark, soil, and rock, embodying the resilience and raw power of the natural wilderness.
Robert Schreiner
“abstract – l’amour #061”
Mix media on canvas
Dimension: 90×100 cm
Year: 2009
Robert Schreiner
“abstract #028”
Mix media on canvas
Dimension: 80×100 cm
Year: 2007
Schreiner’s approach involves a refined process of layering color, scratching, and revealing underlying surfaces—techniques that evoke the natural flow and dynamism of light. His abstract works are not static; they are embodied expressions of transient moments, reminiscent of natural phenomena like the shifting colors of sunset clouds or the gentle ripple of water. Each piece invites viewers to explore the shifting depths and luminous planes, evoking an emotional response rooted in the vitality of color and the poetry of texture.
“Abstract #028,” created in 2007, exemplifies Robert Schreiner’s mastery of layered mixed media on canvas. This 80×100 cm piece draws viewers into a vibrant interplay of colors and textures that exemplify his ongoing exploration of light, emotion, and spontaneity.
This work is characterized by fluid gestures and dynamic washes of color—warm pinks and oranges merging effortlessly with cooler blues and blacks—evoking a sense of natural luminosity and poetic silence. The seemingly spontaneous application of paint and layered scratches create a rich surface, inviting viewers to engage with both the vibrancy and subtlety of the composition.
“Abstract – l’amour #061,” completed in 2009, exemplifies Robert Schreiner’s profound engagement with the dynamic interplay of color, texture, and emotion. This 90×100 cm canvas showcases his characteristic mastery of mixed media, where spontaneous gestures and layered washes create a vivid visual harmony rooted in both spontaneity and control.
The soft yet energetic blending of blues, reds, and yellows evokes a sense of tenderness intertwined with vitality—an homage to the passionate complexity of love and human connection. The execution reveals a careful exploration of atmospheric effects, with subtle scratches and layered textures that invite the viewer to look deeper into the painting’s luminous surface.
Robert Schreiner
Switzerland, 1965
A key aspect of his creative process is the use of natural materials like earths, sands, stones, and plant-based pigments, carefully incorporated into his artworks. He holds the belief that true color beauty shines when paired with genuine materials sourced directly from the earth.
In conclusion, his art is born from patience, a deep respect for natural materials, and the interplay between solitude and the passage of time. His creations encourage viewers to contemplate their own relationship with nature and discover beauty in life’s raw, unpolished moments.
Curated by
