Georg Baselitz's "Das Negativ" series, unveiled in 2012 at the Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, presents a captivating exploration of inversion and negative imagery in art. This series is part of Baselitz's broader practice of flipping motifs and subjects upside-down, a technique he initiated in 1969 as a means to disengage representation from content. Through this method, Baselitz has consistently challenged traditional perceptions of art and representation, engaging with the works of predecessors such as Willem de Kooning and Jackson Pollock to liberate the act of painting from its conventional constraints.

The "Das Negativ" paintings employ a dark palette, drawing inspiration from photographic negatives. This approach not only inverts the colors but also obscures the subjects, adding a layer of abstraction and complexity to the viewer's interpretation. By employing this technique, Baselitz delves deeper into the themes of perception and the construction of meaning within the visual arts, inviting viewers to reconsider the relationship between the subject and its representation.

The series represents a significant period in Baselitz's oeuvre, showcasing his continuous experimentation with form, color, and composition. This body of work was exhibited alongside his Fingermalerei (Finger Painting) series from the early 1970s, highlighting his lifelong commitment to exploring and expanding the boundaries of painting. The "Das Negativ" series not only reflects Baselitz's innovative approach to painting but also contributes to the broader discourse on the nature of art and perception.

For those interested in the complexities of modern art and the explorations of one of its key figures, Georg Baselitz's "Das Negativ" series offers a profound and challenging perspective on the act of painting and the endless possibilities of visual representation​ (Thaddaeus Ropac)​​ (GalleriesNow.net)​.