Memorable Views (Comment by Heidi Bock)

In 1990, Peter Losse opened his exhibition in Hannover in the Markt Church , the symbol of Lower Saxony ’s capital. Devoted to the cycle “Existence without Life” it comprises 21 large- format oil-paintings, i.e. seven triptychs each presenting a themes complex. By 1990, five triptychs had been completed. The presentation of these 15 paintings evoked public interest and controversial discussions. Losse, careful and quite meticulous in rendering details, yet unmistakable and outspoken, is unique in expressing in this outcry against the pollution of the environment, against oppression, Also an outcry against the public’s satiation and indifference; against the attitude of people who see but their own advantage, turning a blind eye to the cares, needs, and suffering in the world, all of which has incited the artist Peter Losse to give expression to his empathy. and it did not fail to create an impact on the visitors of the exposition who sensed that Peter Losse, the artist; straight forward in his thinking, and, ever distrustful, hates dubious compromise solutions. There arose vehement discussions. Some people felt deeply moved being reminded of their responsibility for this world as being part of this world; others felt repelled as they expect only edifying experience in a church. Thus people’s reactions and their entries in the visitor’s book varied between these extremes: enthusiastic, moved, and pensive, or disturbed (perhaps in their complacency), distraught, and repelled. Peter Losse lends expression to his innermost feelings – not only revolt but also joie de vivre. He is awed by nature’s little wonders which Peter Losse experiences as great secrets which he seeks out patiently and humbly. His artistic creativity spans a side scope up of many facets in each single field. When it comes to the various techniques, he is the most ruthless critic of his own workmanship. Good is not good enough. He is always aiming for the best result of his faculties. This is certainly his own way of expressing his personality and, at the same time, his respect of others.

Those who adhere to the conception of the artist as the one who, kissed by the Muse and following a sudden inspiration, exhausts himself in a wild creative impetus maltreating the canvas with paint and brush till his arms are failing him, should get to know Peter Losse personally. ‘Kunst kommt von Können‘ (art is skill) according to Max Liebermann. If art depended on one‘s will its name would be ‘willity‘. But art also means work, and work means discipline, a quality diametrically opposed to the common notion of the artist at work. In the sense of continuity, discipline, and steadfastness, Peter Losse is a worker, getting up early, dedicated to his task with perseverance. There is no denying that he cannot do without inspiration and the ‘Muse‘s kiss: a disciplined artist and not simply a worker. “There is the artist who makes the sun a yellow spot, but there is also the one who, with skill and reflection, makes the yellow spot the sun.“ (Pablo Picasso) There is also the one who is a combination of both.

Those who view a work of art, invariably experience a dialogue between their innermost feeling and the viewed object. The simple act of looking at a work of art is thus turned into an interaction between the inner and outer world, between the real and the imaginary world. In his oeuvre the artist starts a dialogue with the viewer, who, simultaneously, enters into a dialogue himself. By the oeuvre‘s message a dialogue is set in motion which in its turn creates a vivid matrix of energy evoking emotions. Let us quote Picasso once more: “Art cleanses the soul of the dust of everyday life.“ Now, when you begin browsing in Peter Losse’s web-site, leave your everyday life behind and quietly relish the paintings and give way to the feelings evoked. Let yourself be enchanted by the harmony of colour and the clarity of expression which are typical of Peter Losse’s oeuvre. “The eye sees what it seeks“, says the painter Max Slevogt. See and seek for yourself. I‘m certain you‘ll find more than you sought for.

Heidi Bock,Germany
Journalist