Search and Research
In the Otto Wyler Archive there are copies of many B&W photos of paintings, which were collected by his wife Betty Wyler-Jaeger and include her notes. We are searching for these and many other works by Otto Wyler.
Link to blog with B/W photo archive
Following are ideas/topics for research on the work of Otto Wyler his art and the person. Which influences by others can be seen in his work? Did he create his own style? Where did he show all aspects of himself? etc...
The Lady in the Blue Kimono - Communicative painting
c. 1900
Otto Wyler painted quite a few works which are not just “ postcards “ of his objects, but his creations do communicate in a perhaps mystical way with the viewer.
Students of Swiss Schools were asked to observe this painting – and then needed to answer questions – such as “she invites you to join her – what would you like to drink and what is she drinking“. Another task for the students of a cooking school, was to prepare a menu and cook this meal for the lady.
How could this be possible without some kind of communication between the object and the viewer?
Monte Forno
1917
The Monte Forno 1917, has been painted also by other Swiss painters, such as Giacometti, Segantini and Kundig. Why did they all choose to paint this view of the Alps and how do Otto Wyler’s painting relate to the others.
The Jewish Background
1912
The Synagogue in St. Gallen 1912, seems to be only painting related to his Jewish background. The family story says that he made sketches for this painting on Yom Kippur – and Mrs. Dvora Liss (curator Ein Harod Museum of Art, Israel) suggested that the painting shows the view of the long time Swiss Jews visa vis recent Jewish immigrants.
Mother and Child
1913
The painting of the Mother and Child 1912, which will be exhibited at the renovated Wildenstein Castle, shows two scars on the face of the mother. Did Otto Wyler do this to express his own scars which were the result of a surgery he underwent as a young boy, also showing the innocence of the young girl?
Blick auf der Aare
c. 1940
Typical for O.W. that in many of his landscapes he would add working farmers (women). Remarks by Zimira Wyler (daughter of Otto Wyler).
Blick auf der Aare, was commissioned as a gift to the Swiss Chief of Staff, General Guisan – by the State of Aargovia – handwriting of Betty Wyler, They asked the General which view OR topic of the Aargau he wanted to be painted – with the farmer working in the field?
Blick auf der Aare photography documentation front side
Blick auf der Aare - photo backside and notes