Circling Sharks

Albrecht Behmel: A Multifaceted Artist

Albrecht Behmel (German: [ˈalbʁɛçt ˈbeːməl]; born March 24, 1971) is a German artist, novelist, historian, non-fiction writer, and award-winning playwright. His diverse career reflects a broad intellectual curiosity and a commitment to exploring the intersections of art, history, and narrative.

Early Life and Education

Born in Heidelberg, Germany, Behmel comes from a distinguished lineage. He is the son of geologist Hermann Behmel and grandson of architect Paul Behmel. The family name itself has interesting roots, being a Germanicized form of the Czech given name Bogomil, tracing back to Bohemian emigration to Saxony in the early 18th century. On his mother’s side, he descends from Christoph Martin Wieland, a prominent Swabian poet and writer of the Enlightenment.

Before pursuing formal studies, Behmel gained diverse life experience working as a bouncer and puppeteer in Paris during the early 1990s. He later returned to Germany to complete his humanities education at Heidelberg University, where he studied alongside Silvana Koch-Mehrin and Gerrit Jasper Schenk, and continued at Humboldt University, Berlin.

Scholarly Pursuits and Early Publishing

Behmel’s academic interests are wide-ranging. He has published scholarly work on ancient history, Greek naval warfare, and early German literature, including the Nibelungenlied. Notably, he was a pioneer in German electronic publishing, creating a series of self-help e-books for fellow students under the pseudonym Timothy Patterson.

Artistic Development and Style

Behmel’s artistic practice is characterized by vibrant geometric paintings that delve into complex themes. His work, often categorized as Geometric art or Abstract expressionism, frequently explores connections between art history, mythology, and faith. He blends abstract forms with narrative depth, creating visually striking compositions that invite contemplation.

Major Achievements and Recognition

• Founded Filmforum in 2008: A network for film and media professionals.
• Established the Samiel Award in 2013: An annual literary prize recognizing antagonists in newly published German novels, awarding winners 666 euros – a symbolic gesture.
• Exhibited artwork internationally.
• Published numerous works including novels, radio plays, computer games, film scripts and stage plays as well as non-fiction.

Influences and Historical Significance

While Behmel’s artistic style is distinctly his own, it draws inspiration from a broad range of sources, including historical art movements and literary traditions. His multifaceted career – encompassing writing, scholarship, and artistic creation – positions him as a unique figure in contemporary German culture.

Behmel's work stands out for its intellectual rigor and willingness to engage with complex themes. He represents a modern artist who seamlessly integrates diverse disciplines, offering fresh perspectives on enduring human concerns.

Selected Works

• Thor
• Iron Man
• Singer
• Spiderman
• Circling Sharks
• Batman
• Circling Sharks 1
• The Magic of the Swarms