Michael Gappmeier
Contemporary Art Between Human and Animal
Michael Gappmeier is an artist who challenges the boundaries between species through his work. As a sculptor and plastic artist, he creates fascinating hybrid creatures—combinations of humans and animals that invite reflection on nature, identity, and the interconnectedness of both worlds. His sculptures go beyond mere representation, encouraging viewers to consider transformation and metamorphosis as central themes of modern existence.
Gappmeier’s art combines visual aesthetics with intellectual depth. His works raise essential questions about the relationship between species, questioning fixed notions of separation and belonging. Through his unique visual language and expressive design, he has established himself as a significant figure in contemporary art, opening new perspectives with his sculptures.
Hybrid Beings – The Fusion of Human and Animal
In his Hybrid Beings series, Gappmeier explores the fluid interplay of human and animal characteristics. His figures, crafted from wood, bronze, and resin, often exude a sense of humor while carrying deeper meaning. Using mixed techniques, he creates scenes that may initially amuse but, upon closer inspection, provoke profound questions about human existence.
From small bozzettos to life-sized sculptures, he stages everyday moments in surreal forms—reflections on identity, belonging, and transformation. His works demonstrate that seriousness and humor are not opposites but rather complement each other in a well-balanced interplay.
Necklaces – Jewelry as Monumental Art
Born from the desire to transcend jewelry beyond wearable objects and into spatial dimensions, Gappmeier developed a visionary idea: transforming small necklaces with delicate pendants into oversized 3D sculptures. This play with scale redefines the meaning of jewelry—it is no longer worn on the body but displayed as a large-scale artwork on the wall. Whether left in natural wood or refined with shimmering gold, these monumental objects create a powerful presence in the room. Ranging in size from 50 × 50 cm to 250 × 250 cm, they blend elegance with sculpturality, challenging the boundaries between design and art.
VITA
Michael Gappmeier, born in 1982 in Zell am See, Salzburg, is an Austrian artist.
He attended the sculpture school in Elbigenalp, followed by a master class in Hallein.
Since 2018, he has worked as an independent artist and is a member of the art collective GlemmArt. His works have been exhibited both nationally and internationally.
Studio and workshop in Saalbach/Hinterglemm, Austria.
