The term influence has a lot of momentum these days, thanks to the advancement of technology designed to connect us. Either we are in the process of influencing or are being influenced by someone. However, the meaning of this word holds significance from centuries. Use of Art to portray oneself in the position of power and wealth, to inspire, motivate, intimidate is relevant even today.
The portray of power (through words or sight) holds a meaning that shapes the narrative of the people, no matter whether it ‘upholds the truth or nurture a lie’.
Soft Power l, 2020 by Jonathan Monaghan is an exceptional portrayal of the power “sense of luxury” holds in the digital age. Represented brilliantly by illustrating the 'sitter' in a regal pose consumed in brands, proclaiming its status and rank. The irony of it all is the face cover in velvet fabric with blinding eyewear adorned with embellishments; hiding the truth behind the mask has become an everyday reality of this age.
Soft power ll, 2020 and Alien Sofa I, 2019 are the other works by Johnathan currently exhibited at Galloire.
The Lost Signal by Anne Spalter is an AI inspired digital art exploring the concept of ‘modern landscape’. The work is a continuous loop of changing landscapes using AI text-to-image digital composition from Lighthouse to signal tower. The artists play with the *collective unconscious; refers to the idea that a segment of the deepest unconscious mind is genetically inherited and is not shaped by personal experience, using the towers as an ancient primal symbol. As the tower transitions from lighthouse to signal post, the fleeting lights provide a glimpse of meliorism while signaling caution.
Social Media has created a world where you get inspired every day to the point of disappointment. It has done an outstanding job of creating nebulous image. Aiala Hernando & Addie Wagenknecht series of works provides a stunning visual representation of the slang term “GHOSTING”. The black background gives you a sense of drear in contrast to the vibrant colour for the veil over flowers proclaiming acceptance to the disappointment and moving forward.
One of the peculiar and enjoyable work on exhibit is by Xavi Sole Mora – The Golden Feast. The art is a reinterpretation of works of the Spanish Grand Master Francisco Goya. In collaboration with VR artist Alexandra Adderley, you can experience this work of art. “All that glitters is not gold” is very well collaborated in this work. This also happened to challenge our sense of security, at what point do we start to realize that what we consider harmless, has turn the tide?
Galloire running exhibition, <I'm not a Robot>, showcases works by six renowned artists -
Jonas Lund
Daniel Canogar
Addie Wagenknecht
Anne Spalter
Xavi Sole Mora
Jonathan Monaghan
The Gallery is situated at London Street, City Walk, Dubai and open to all. The Exhibition is until 28th Feb 2022. You can visit www.galloire.com to read more about these amazing works.
The review is of the writer’s opinion.
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