Grown in the green Painting

René Mayer is a Swiss artist whose creative journey embraces decades of innovation in painting and sculpture. Since attending the School of Arts and Crafts in Basel (now Hochschule für Gestaltung und Kunst Basel), Mayer has continually refined his craft, transitioning from early figurative works to abstract art that explores social, environmental, and cultural themes. His attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship define his practice, which combines technical skill with conceptual depth. In each of his works, Mayer aims to create a dialogue about contemporary societal challenges. His abstractions invite viewers to reflect on the gradual transformations in our environments—both natural and social. For René, art is not just a means of expression, but a way of contemplating and engaging with the world around us. René Mayer’s recent series, Imperceptible Shift, curated by Luca Beatrice at SAB Spazio Arte Bubbio (Italy, June–August 2024), highlights his concern for the environment. In these works, Mayer incorporates casino chips—a striking symbol of the risks we take with nature. For Mayer, the chips represent humanity’s reckless behavior: "We gamble with the Earth as if it were a casino, but in this game, we’re all bound to lose." In this series, Mayer explores the small, often unnoticed changes in our environment that build up over time. Through abstract forms and textured layers, he captures the fragility of nature and our tendency to overlook slow but significant transformations. This exhibition received praise for its thoughtful portrayal of ecological concerns, encouraging viewers to reflect on the ways we interact with and impact the world around us.