untitled (blue 71)

2026, salt solutions on chromatography paper

40 x 30 cm

Nora Schattauer works with chemical solutions, mineral salts and acids, which are applied to the paper in a controlled manner with a pipette, in such a way that an almost regular, constantly varied pattern forms the basic framework. As the substances penetrate the image carrier, they gain visual depth and thus become a kind of physical resonance surface. They react with the unglued paper, form bonds and are subject to subsequent colour changes. This "reaction process" often gives the works a fluid character; the artist herself speaks of "controlled chance". Although Schattauer cannot completely anticipate the result, empirical values allow her to control it in a variety of ways.
Structured composition and colourful appearance are indissolubly interwoven in Schattauer's works. The microscopic variety of forms evokes associations with nature, the pulsation and oscillation conjures up memories of processual procedures. The variety of forms and the colour gradations are almost unlimited. The shapes appear like apparitions that, having come to rest for a moment, can withdraw again - the openness, the potential for change seems to be inscribed in the pictures.