Monika Hackl

I live and work in Munich since 2013, having formerly lived in South Africa for a long time. I like employing multiple styles, from realism to impressionism and even abstract, choosing one that best fits the subject matter at hand. Many inspirations come from old masters I admire like Murillo, Carravaggio, Vermeer translated into a modern context through current themes, urban settings, and lived experience. Having worked internationally, my practice reflects a dialogue between my South African origins and my life in Europe. This dual perspective informs my focus on light, place, and narrative — whether in portrait commissions, cityscapes, or landscapes defined by memory and personal connection. Recent work includes contemporary realist portraiture and studio pieces created for private collectors.
My aim is to create work that resonates emotionally first, and visually second — paintings that invite the viewer not only to observe, but to step into the moment being held.

Masters Degree at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University

2009 NoName Exhibition, Port Elizabeth South Africa
2010 Everyone Counts, Durban South Africa
2016 Vernissage Munich Germany
2022 Vernissage Langenlois Austria
2022 Art & Wine Festival Dürnstein Austria
2022 The Stage Gallery Cologne Germany
2022 Melliflous Exhibition Capital Culture House