Open Heart

Horst Janssen (1929–1995)

Janssen was a German draftsman, printmaker, and illustrator renowned for his expressive and intricate works. Born in Hamburg, he studied at the Hamburg University of Fine Arts, where he developed a fascination with hing, lithography, and drawing. Janssen’s art combined technical mastery with emotional intensity, often exploring themes of mortality, self-reflection, and decay. A prolific artist, he created thousands of works characterised by fine detail, dark humour, and psychological depth. His turbulent personality and unconventional lifestyle mirrored the rawness of his art. Today, Janssen is celebrated as one of Germany’s most distinctive and influential postwar artists.

The Horst Janssen museum in his hometown of Oldenburg is dedicated to his legacy and his work is shown internationally in major museums.

Janssen's life was marked by numerous marriages, outspoken opinions, alcoholism and selfless dedication to the art of printmaking.

Image Dimensions: 595mm W x 770mm H

Framing: Unframed