Roland Haag, the former cultural center director from Remchingen, has discovered a powerful new voice in visual art, creating textured paintings that merge unconventional materials with deep emotional resonance. After dedicating decades to bringing countless cultural artists to his community since the Kulturhalle's inception in 1989, Haag now channels his passion into creating his own artistic statements. His exhibition "Structure and Emotion," opening January 8 at Remchingen's new town hall, showcases 60 carefully selected works that demonstrate his unique approach to painting. The show represents Haag's second exhibition in the municipal building, marking his continued artistic evolution since retirement in 2017.
What distinguishes Haag's work is his innovative use of materials that extend far beyond traditional paint. The restless retiree incorporates cement, sand, folded paper, marble dust, and bitumen into his mostly large-format works, either individually or in combination. These materials create both intentional and accidental structures on the canvas, giving each piece a distinctive tactile quality. Haag explains that he is drawn to structures wherever they appear, whether on streets, construction sites, abandoned buildings, or in nature. Some structures emerge consciously during the creative process, while others develop over time, allowing the work to evolve in unexpected directions.
The artistic process itself remains fluid and unpredictable for Haag. He approaches each canvas with a plan in mind but embraces the detours and surprises that emerge during creation. Using bold colors, drawings, handwriting, and occasional photo collages, he awakens emotions within these concrete structures. This methodology sometimes leads him to revisit paintings years later, adding new layers or incorporating nocturnal inspirations that demand immediate expression. The result is often radically different from his original conception, reflecting a dynamic relationship between artist and medium that prioritizes discovery over rigid execution.
Haag's journey to visual artistry represents a significant shift from his professional career. While studying German literature, sports science, and art therapy provided some foundation, his work as cultural center director left little time for personal artistic creation beyond designing posters and program booklets. The newly available time in retirement, which he also enjoys spending mountain biking, skiing, visiting cultural events, and traveling with his wife, has allowed him to pursue fresh inspiration through courses at art academies. This continued education has helped him refine his technique and deepen his conceptual approach.
The Remchingen town hall provides an ideal setting for Haag's architectural aesthetic. He notes that the building's restrained architecture, limited to concrete, wood, and glass without unnecessary ornamentation, makes it perfectly suited for exhibitions. Each of his paintings carries a title, such as "What Remains" or "When You Look at It This Way," though Haag deliberately keeps these names open to interpretation, allowing viewers space for their own understanding. The opening reception on January 8 at 6:30 PM will feature welcoming remarks from Mayor Julia Wieland and musical accompaniment by guitarist Matthias Hautsch from Straubenhardt, after which Haag will guide visitors through his works. The exhibition remains open during regular town hall hours through mid-April, with Haag accepting tour requests via his website. This show represents not just a display of art, but a testament to reinvention and the pursuit of creative passion at any stage of life.
