Aribert “Ari” Munzner, the celebrated artist known for his vibrant “Genesis” paintings that blended science and metaphysics, passed away on August 1, 2023, at the age of 95. He died of natural causes at his home, leaving behind a legacy that significantly influenced the art community in Minneapolis and beyond.
Munzner’s artwork was characterized by its lively colors and themes that often reflected an exploration of the universe and spiritual concepts. His daughter, Tamara Munzner, noted that her father’s interest spanned various mystical traditions, including Jewish Kabbalah, Sufism from Islam, and esoteric aspects of Hindu yoga and Qigong. This diverse influence is evident in his many works, all of which carried the title “Genesis” in some form.
Influential Educator and Artist
For over four decades, Munzner served as a professor at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), where he was a mentor to countless students. His dedication to teaching extended beyond the classroom; he held several prominent positions, including chairing the Division of Fine Arts and later becoming dean of faculty. In 1988, he received an honorary MFA from the college, recognizing his significant contributions to art education.
Munzner’s teaching philosophy emphasized the importance of exploring both negative space and the inner workings of creativity. Michal Sagar, an artist and former student, recalled how Munzner encouraged her to focus on the concept of space in painting, shaping her artistic practice. His ability to connect deeply with students was a hallmark of his teaching style, as reflected by former student Leah Golberstein, who described him as fully engaged in conversations, regardless of the setting.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Born in 1928 in Germany, Munzner’s life was marked by resilience. At the age of seven, he and his Jewish family fled Nazi Germany for Baghdad, eventually relocating to New York City in 1941. Munzner later pursued his Master of Fine Arts at Michigan’s Cranbrook Academy of Art, graduating in 1955. His journey through different cultures and experiences greatly influenced his artistic vision.
In 2020, Munzner faced a significant challenge when a fire caused by civil unrest following the killing of George Floyd damaged his studio, destroying around 500 of his works. Despite this setback, he maintained a positive outlook, stating, “I’m starting again because that’s what I’ve been doing all my life.” With support from family and the community, he began anew in a different studio in the California Building in northeast Minneapolis.
Munzner’s impact extended well beyond his own creations. He engaged with contemporary issues in art, urging his colleagues at MCAD to consider “historical realities, virtual realities, and ambient realities.” His insights remain relevant as discussions about art and technology continue to evolve.
Throughout his career, Munzner cultivated meaningful friendships, including a long-standing bond with Paris-born artist Pier Marton. Their weekly Zoom calls allowed them to share their experiences and reflections on their Jewish heritage and artistic journeys.
Munzner’s works are held in several permanent collections, including the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and the Tweed Museum in Duluth, as well as the Zhejiang Academy of Art in Hangzhou, China. His final major project was a collaborative piece—a 12-seat round table at the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District Welcome Center.
He is survived by his daughters, Tamara Munzner, residing in Vancouver, Canada, and Naomi Munzner, in Minneapolis. Munzner was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Munzner, his brother, Peter, and his parents, Ralph and Bertha Schliferowitsch.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Aribert and Joan Munzner Scholarship Fund at MCAD. A celebration of Munzner’s life will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2023, from 14:00 to 16:00 at Studio 118 in the California Building, located at 2205 California St. NE, Minneapolis.
