ART ATHINA
International Contemporary Art Fair
‘Metamorphosis Unveiled’
Participating Artists: Dimitris Fragakis, Dimitris Kontodimos, Dionisis Christofilogiannis, Rene Habermacher, Giorgos Tserionis, Natalia Astraea, Nikomachi Karakostanoglou, Pantelis Vitaliotis – Magneto, Yorgos Papafigos
SPACE 52
Booth C8
Curated by Olympia Tzortzi
Sept. 14 – 17 / 2023
Zappeion Mansion
Athens
“Metamorphosis Unveiled” is an immersive and thought-provoking art exhibition that brings together the works of eight diverse artists, each offering a unique perspective on the intricate relationships between humanity, nature, technology, and emotion. The exhibition delves into the depths of human experience, inviting viewers to contemplate their own place within the grand tapestry of existence[1]. Through sculptures, paintings, and installations, the artists explore themes of transformation, connection, decay, and renewal, prompting visitors to reflect on the profound complexities of life and the world around them.
Astraea’s miniature yet monumental works beckon viewers to connect with the natural world and their inner selves. The texture created by coffee in her art elevates the experience, encouraging visitors to interpret hidden messages and notice the subtle signs that surround them. Papafigos’s sculptural devices embody the fusion of technology and the environment, provoking contemplation on the consequences of human invention. Using industrial materials and medical instruments, these haunting sculptures evoke both potential energy sources and environmental decay.
Journey through the evolution of Greek sculpture, from ancient inspirations to the idealized perfection of the human form. Karakostanoglou’s works capture the timeless fascination with proportions, poise, and the embodiment of artistic excellence. Her work may exemplify the idea that imperfection can enhance beauty and convey a deeper, more profound message. The “imperfect” elements as mentioned in “The Nude: A Study in Ideal Form” by Kenneth Clark within the sculptures could evoke a sense of humanity, vulnerability, and the cyclical nature of life.[2]
Tserionis’s porcelain sculptures delve into the depths of human emotions, exposing the darker facets of our nature. His grotesque yet anthropomorphic creations explore temporality, loss of empathy, and the primal essence that resides within us.
Vitaliotis’s acrylic paintings create a microcosm of psychology and emotion through graphic design and traditional painting. The interplay of forms conveys a nuanced language of feelings, inviting viewers to navigate the intricate landscape of the mind. Benjamin’s concepts of memory, allegory, and dialectical image might provide a lens through which to interpret the layers of meaning and feelings in Vitaliotis’ work.[3] Kontodimos’s urban narratives meld sculptural elements with the essence of city life. Everyday objects and architectural motifs converse in a visual dialogue that reflects the city’s history, structure, and ever-changing vitality.
Fragakis’s ‘Spare parts’ series sculptures made of epoxy resin and aluminum, offer a glimpse into the interplay between primitive knowledge and contemporary perception. Sculptural relief frames house reimagined mental body parts, bridging the familiar and the new in an exploration of human senses and identity.
Christofilogiannis’ drawings highlights the evolving intersection of technology, sexuality, and isolation. Drawing from architectural forms and mechanical components, his works evoke a sense of tension, reflecting the dualities inherent in the human experience. Heidegger delves into the essence of technology and its impact on human existence in “The Question Concerning Technology” which reveals a deeper understanding of these works.[4]
Habermacher’s works serve as a critical exploration of our attitudes toward history and the artifacts linked to it. Complementing this concept with his ceramic sculptures, a series of photographs presents sculptures positioned within simulated archaeological sites. These setups revolve around containers brimming with soil, accompanied by tools for measuring and excavation.
“Metamorphosis Unveiled” invites visitors to embark on a journey of introspection and exploration, where the convergence of art, nature, technology, and emotion unveils the complex threads that bind humanity to the world it inhabits.
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[1] James William emphasized the impact of individual actions, no matter how small they may seem. He believed that our choices and behaviors ripple out into the world, influencing others and contributing to the collective human experience. This idea encourages a sense of responsibility and empowerment, reminding us that each person’s contribution matters in shaping the greater tapestry of existence.
[2] Kenneth Clark, Baron Clark, National gallery of art (Washington, D.C.).
Princeton University Press, 21 Oct 1972 – 458 pages
[3] Benjamin, Walter. “The Arcades Project” (Passagen-Werk). Edited by Rolf Tiedemann. Translated by Howard Eiland and Kevin McLaughlin. Harvard University Press, 1999.
[4] Heidegger, Martin. The Question Concerning Technology. In Basic Writings: from Being and Time (1927) to the Task of Thinking (1964). Edited by David Farrell Krell. New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 1993.
‘Spare Parts’ series, 2011-2023
The series – Spare Parts – consists of five sculpture pieces in the form of installation. Sculptural relief frames contains forms of reconstructed mental body parts.
The works are intended to transfer the viewer’s perception to spaces where the Primitive knowledge of the body meets the Contemporary perception.
With fleeting neurons touches, each artwork suggest itself separately using plasticity and fluidity of its existence. At the same time it is cerebrally reshaped and reconstituted.
The sculpture forms very quickly use ‘The Familiar’ as a communication bridge, in order to strengthen the domestication with the ‘New identity’ and finally to conquer a permanent place in the invisible space of human senses. DF
For more information, please visit: www.aavirtual.gr and www.space52.gr