The Leipzig-based German artist David Schnell (*1971) usually employs elements of landscape in his paintings. Indeed, first-time viewers might be under the impression that they are looking at landscape paintings, but in reality they are witnessing Schnell’s obsessive treatment of space—something he frequently intensifies by painting in large formats that seem to engulf the viewer. Equally striking is Schnell’s compelling use of linear perspective and the vanishing point to create pictorial order. However, this order is often counteracted by the artist’s almost subliminal desire for action. These conflicting elements of order and explosion give the paintings an extraordinary energy and dynamism that never leave the viewer's eye or mind at rest. The landscape in Schnell’s works provides a framework against which he explores his thoughts, ideas and artistic concerns. Exhibition schedule: Parasol unit foundation for contemporary art, London, June 21–July 29, 2006