Manfred Kielnhofer Artist Statement

Guards of Time Manfred Kielnhofer
“Guards of Time” relates to the idea that since the beginning of time mankind has had protectors, both for historic and mystical reasons. It seems that only man himself is a potential source of danger for his own existence. 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. His works of art captivate with elaborate combinations of light and different technique.
Manfred Kielnhofer was born in Haslach an der Mühl, Austria. He is self-taught and works with many different mediums; including, painting, film, photography, installation, performance and sculpture. His work usually concerns the human figure, and its different forms and movements, focusing mainly on the peculiarities of human nature. He uses the human form as a tool, either on a canvas or in a sculpture.
500 x Art in Public, Chris van Uffelen, Braun publishing ISBN 978-3-200-02461-8
http://kielnhofer.at/guards

Guardians of Time by Manfred Kielnhofer
Have you heard about the Time Guardians by Manfred Kielnhofer?

These life size Time Guards or Guardians of Time are cloaked figures that seem to appear mysteriously and disappear just as unexpectedly, whether in forests and parks, in or in front of-castles or other well known architectural sites, and around the world at art shows like the Biennial or Art Basel.

Guardians of Time are created by Manfred Kielnhofer, a self-taught Austrian artist who works with many different mediums; including, painting, film, photography, installation, performance and sculpture.
The human figure is an integral part of his work, and he often uses the human form as a tool, either in place of a canvas, or in a collaboration with, to produce large-scale installations or performances.
In 2006 he created the first “Guardian of Time” to be part of the Skulpturenpark Artpark in Linz. These guardians, and more, have travelled to several countries and been part of many installations and exhibitions. Seemingly drawn from religious and mystical experiences, the artist produced these life-sized figures cloaked in a hooded robe, and they resemble a wandering druid or monk deep in meditation.
It is said in mythology and contemporary science fiction, that the Guardians of Time were an esoteric collective of time-travellers, influenced by Celtic tradition, who kept an eye on the earth and intervened at certain points in history.  Likened to high priests or even gods, they had the power to protect or destroy.
Kielnhofer has reportedly refused to disclose his personal intentions behind the Time Guards, leaving it to the individual to personally interpret these ghostly figures.
Lately the whole question of time is big in my mind. Questions like what am I doing with my time, to deep feelings that I am running out of time are all swirling in my mind. These haunting figures could feel a bit ominous, but to me they are incredibly beautiful. They feel like a walking question, and are truly magical, especially at night when they are lit up.
How do you interpret these Time Guards? Are these figures reminders of time passed or time to come? Are they guarding time for you, or from you? I love art that inspires me to think beyond the every day, especially if they are a Little Bit of Beauty™ too!

http://irene-turner.com/2013/10/time-guards-by-manfred-kielnhofer/

Guardians of Time

The Guardians of Time are sculptures created by Manfred Kielnhofer (Austria). The story behind these mystique illuminated creatures is about observing the and protecting the world. The Guardians appear worldwide at historical important places and the community of international photographers following them gets bigger every day. The Guardians of Time on google images are producing incredible results.
For a new City Manfred Kielnhofer is producing its own group of unique Sculptures. They will appear every night at new place and the unique sculptures might stay in a local gallery. The new Project "Mini-Guardians" offer the chance to integrate a very special kind of photo competition too.
On the Web: Facebook.com/timeguards and the artist himself Manfred Kielnhofer
Creative LightArt projects lettherebelight.net

Austrian artist Manfred Kielnhofer's light sculptures "Time Keepers" have landed in Berlin for the 2012 Festival of Lights. During the 12-night tour (October 10 – October 21, 2012), these five red hooded figures will appear at various locations in the city, giving Berliners a chance to look upon these glowing mystical beings who seem to hold the key