Tamara Riedel

Concrete Artist

Her works surprise viewers with their apparent lightness. With the warmth and humanity she shapes from cold stone. And with enigmatic animal creatures whose gazes penetrate directly into the innermost depths. At the same time, Tamara Riedel challenges viewers: oversized concrete breasts, sensual female faces and depictions of vulvas make a strong impression. ‘These two poles – amazement and provocation – are the most important aspects of my work,’ says the artist, describing her approach.

At the BETONIST studio in Basel, Tamara Riedel has developed a unique technique and an unmistakable style in working with concrete. As betonist.ch, the trained designer has been working with this unusual material for several years, creating impressive sculptures and light installations.

Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 1978, Tamara Riedel now lives in Switzerland. After spending time in Germany and her native Georgia, her artistic work is shaped by her international experience.

Riedel’s sculptures fascinate with their mixture of naive directness and powerful, often sensual charisma. Her robot-like figures appear both playful and angular, surprising the viewer with lovingly crafted details and an unmistakable femininity. The use of different materials such as copper, epoxy resin and fur lend the surfaces a special depth. However, the focus is on concrete – sometimes pure, sometimes refined with pigments.

Tamara Riedel is always on the lookout for new challenges: ‘I constantly ask myself where my art is heading. One thing is certain: I am excited by the prospect of creating ever larger and more complex sculptures while continuing to perfect the details I love.’

With her works, Tamara Riedel infuses concrete with beauty and coldness with desire. ‘It fulfils me when I see the smiles and the special sparkle in the eyes of visitors,’ says the artist.