Paul Talman was a Swiss artist known for his work in Concrete Art, kinetic art, and participatory art. Born in Zurich, Talman initially trained as a lithographer in Bern, where he connected with the artistic circles around the magazine “Spirale” and Galerie 33. In the 1950s, he shifted from abstract art to Concrete Art, focusing on geometric forms, movement, and viewer interaction.

Talman gained recognition for his “Kugelbilder”, interactive artworks that allowed viewers to manipulate spheres and create their own compositions. His work explored themes of variability, participation, and kinetic movement. Alongside his artistic practice, he worked as an Art Director at the advertising agency GGK from 1959 to 1972 and also established a reputation as an industrial designer, collaborating with companies like Knoll and Theo Jakob.

Fascinated by the “American Style”, Talman integrated elements of rhythm and movement into his kinetic sculptures and graphic works, particularly through his “Boogie-Woogie” series. His art is characterized by an elegant, refined aesthetic that combined high design with playful, participatory elements. Talman’s career spanned multiple disciplines, making him a unique figure in mid-20th-century art. (hs)