Robert Wilson
Robert Wilson is an internationally renowned director, artist and set designer from the USA, born in 1941 in Waco, Texas. Known for his avant-garde theater productions, he combines elements such as light, sound, text, choreography and architecture in his works.
Foto: Lucie Jansch
"The world is a library. I draw from all sources. Externally and internally."
Robert Wilson
Regisseur und Künstler
Einstein on the Beach
Opera in four acts by Robert Wilson and Philip Glass, Metropolitan Opera, New York, 1976. photo: Byrd-Hoffmann Foundation
Since the late 1960s, Wilson's productions have shaped the modern landscapes of theater and opera worldwide. Originally studying business administration, Wilson later turned to art and developed his unmistakable style, which combines light, movement, sound and architecture in impressive performances. He became famous for avant-garde productions such as "Einstein on the Beach" (1976), an opera in collaboration with Philip Glass that pushed the boundaries of traditional opera. Other milestones include "The CIVIL warS" (1983), an interdisciplinary work about the American Civil War, as well as productions of classic plays such as Shakespeare's "The Tempest" (2021). He frequently collaborates with well-known artists such as Tom Waits, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Willem Dafoe on experimental projects.
"Light is not an afterthought. It is something architectural; it is a structure. It is considered from the beginning; it is part of the book; it is like an actor."
The Tempest
by William Shakespeare; National Theater "Ivan Vazov", Sofia, Bulgaria, 2021, Photo: Gergana Damianova
In addition to his stage work, Wilson is also known for his sculptures, drawings and furniture designs. His installations often combine art and technology, such as the "VOOM Portraits", a series of high-resolution videos that depict famous personalities and themes in a surreal way. Wilson is often praised for his ability to create new narrative forms that deal with time, space and perception. He uses minimalist elements and abstract aesthetics to evoke profound emotional and intellectual responses. His works often explore the interplay between art and life, inspiring generations of artists and theater makers.
A Boy from texas
Installation view, image: James Harris, 2019
Mondrian Chair
from De Materie, 1989
He has received numerous awards in his career, including a Pulitzer nomination (1986) for the drama "CIVIL warS", three invitations to the Berlin Theatertreffen (1984, 1987, 1991) and the Golden Lion for Sculpture at the Venice Biennale for "Memory/Loss" (1993). The French President appointed him Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters in 2003 and later Officer of the Legion of Honor (2014). The German President awarded him the Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit (2014). In 2023, he was awarded the Praemium Imperiale of the Japan Art Association.
Yes there no where (excerpt)
Monheim on the Rhine, 2023
The art installation "Yes There No Where", which we realized in close collaboration with Robert Wilson, invites visitors to Marienburgpark in Monheim am Rhein on a sensory journey. It includes a mysterious hut and interactive sound wells that appeal to the senses in an immersive way. We are confident that our partnership will continue to produce innovative projects that enrich public spaces and appeal to a wide audience. We look forward to the next steps in this fascinating artistic journey.
Yes there no where (excerpt)
Monheim am Rhein, 2023
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