Artio Gallery Magazine - 1st Edition

THE LONDON Biennale of WOMEN in Art

2024’s Cutting-Edge Art Trends

Cover Artist: Bukola Orioye

Director/Curator in Chief

Bisa Bennett

Anaccomplished and experienced artist herself, Bisa Bennett understands the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for artists to exhibit their work. As a curator and multimedia designer, she is also well-versed in creating engaging opportunities for viewers to experience art. “At our gallery, our vision is to serve as a dynamic and inclusive platform that fosters connections between artists and art enthusiasts, nurturing a vibrant and diverse artistic community,” she explains.

To celebrate the first edition of Artio Magazine, Gallery Director and Curator in Chief Bisa Benett shares her approach to exhibition-making, her advice to emerging artists and her exciting plans for the future of the gallery.

Cover Photo Artist: Bukola Orioye

Instagram: artio.art.gallery

Email: exhibit@artiogallery.com

Copyright © Artio Gallery.Inc

Creative Collaboration

An Interview with Bisa Bennett Director/Curator in Chief

Could you tell us about the gallery’s vision and mission?

Our mission is to champion contemporary art that challenges conventions and sparks dialogue, all while providing a welcoming environment for artists and visitors to engage with the transformative power of art. We are guided by core our values, which include artistic integrity, innovation, accessibility, and a commitment to spotlighting emerging talents.

What are the guiding principles behind your curatorial decisions and exhibitions?

As the Chief Curator, I approach curating exhibitions with a focus on creating meaningful and thought-provoking experiences for our audience. When selecting artists and artworks for a show, I consider several key elements, including artistic merit, relevance to contemporary discourse, thematic coherence, and the potential to engage our diverse audience. We strive to strike a balance between showcasing established artists and providing emerging talents with a platform to exhibit their work.

What factors influence your selection of artists and artworks for exhibitions?

I carefully consider various factors to ensure a cohesive and impactful presentation. The overarching concept or theme of the exhibition guides my selection process, ensuring a coherent narrative. I prioritize artistic quality, seeking works that demonstrate creativity, originality, and technical skill. Relevance to contemporary discourse and social issues adds depth to the exhibition, while diversity and inclusivity are essential to fostering a more representative art world.

How does the gallery support and promote emerging artists?

Supporting emerging artists is central to our gallery’s mission. We establish open communication with our artists, to mentor and guide them towards a successful art career. We work to showcase work by emerging artists to as wide an audience as possible. We achieve this by holding open calls for submissions, promoting their social media platforms and showcasing their artwork on Artsy.net.

Traditional galleries tend to acquire work by artists with a formal art education and a long list of prior exhibitions. We are unique in that we accept artists regardless of their education or experience. In some cases, an artist has their first exhibition with us. For me, this is very exciting as we can be part of the growth of an artist’s career. We are in a position to be able to open the doors to other galleries and collectors.

Does the gallery collaborate with other institutions or artists to create joint exhibitions?

We collaborate with other institutions, such as cultural centers, museums, and fellow artists, to create joint exhibitions. These collaborations allow us to bring together diverse perspectives and expand our artistic horizons. For artists, these partnerships offer valuable networking opportunities and exposure to new audiences, while for the gallery, they enrich our exhibition offerings and foster meaningful connections within the art community.

What are the gallery’s plans and aspirations?

Looking ahead, we plan to expand our gallery’s physical space to accommodate larger and more immersive installations. Additionally, we aim to establish an artist-in-residence program, inviting artists from around the world to collaborate and create within our community. We also intend to further integrate technology to enhance the digital art experience and continue exploring innovative ways to engage art enthusiasts worldwide.

Our upcoming London Biennale of Women in Art is particularly thrilling, as it provides a platform for female artists to gain global recognition and reach audiences from diverse backgrounds. I feel proud to organize this extremely important exhibition as it highlights and platforms women internationally.

Our second project is this magazine, what you’re reading right now is our first edition. We will have new editions which will be distributed in all our future exhibitions and fairs.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists seeking to showcase their work in galleries or gain visibility in the art world?

To aspiring artists, I would encourage them to remain true to their artistic vision and continuously explore and experiment with their craft. Networking and building relationships within the art community are crucial, as these connections can lead to opportunities for exposure and collaboration. Engaging with galleries, participating in art fairs, and responding to open calls can also be fruitful in gaining visibility and recognition.

Most importantly, perseverance, passion, and a commitment to their unique artistic voice will ultimately help them stand out and succeed in the competitive art world. ■

The Art of Healing: Contemporary Art Therapy

Art and self-expression have been embedded in ritual, healing, and communication throughout history and across cultures.

The formal term ‘art therapy’ was first introduced in the early 1940s in America by psychologist Margaret Naumburg and by artist Adrian Hill in Britain.

Naumburg encouraged spontaneous creative expression as a technique to release and visualize emotion and conflict. While recovering from tuberculosis Hill discovered the therapeutic benefits of painting and drawing. He identified that making art could release energy, occupy the mind and body, and build self-esteem. These benefits continue to be central to the practice of art therapy today.

In a post-pandemic world in which greater attention is being given to the importance of positive mental health, the use of art as therapy can be vital. The British Association of Art Therapists explains, “Art therapy uses art as the primary mode of expression, alongside talking with an art therapist. It aims to reduce distress and improve social, emotional, and mental health by promoting insight, self-compassion and a sense of agency and selfworth.”

This practice can involve using painting, drawing, and sculpting to facilitate spontaneous self-expression. The process of making art can help a person make sense of complicated emotions, thoughts, and experiences. There is a growing archive of studies that evidence the positive effect of art therapy in helping young people with mental health difficulties, veterans, adults and children who are managing psychosis and schizophrenia.

Art can be used to access and express difficult thoughts and feelings that resist communication in words. In this therapeutic context, art is a powerful tool for creating connections and providing care.

Francesca Autino: Paradise Acrylic on canvas 40cm x 40cm

BUKOLA ORIOYE

Paradox

Oil on canvas 150cm x 180cm

Bukola Orioye, inspired by societal issues and life demands, explores beauty, culture, and African spirituality in his works, focusing more on the female gender as a conduit to all else. Typical of Bukola’s sleek paintings, his work also demonstrates how Ancient Africa’s culture influences concepts relating to identity, memories, worship, and the well- being of a people.

Bukola delves into the relationship between the past, present, and future, interrogating what traits, ideas, and understandings about African spirituality taken from ancient cultures existing eons ago are being carried into the future and with what effect on the present.

Bukola explains that the use of a black background for all the works reflects the mainstream tag of African people as black, as well as the symbolism of the color black in the ancient Kemetic kingdom, where the color black is associated with the nature of gods. The intention is to prompt viewers to reconsider their mental picture or impressions of the color black and Black people. The works were depicted through the lens of African royal artifacts and contemporary fashion sense as a way to reimagine the infusion of past cultures into present society or to question the place of culture and tradition in this age or generation. ■

BUKOLA ORIOYE

Artist Interview

Could you walk us through your typical creative process, from the initial idea to the finished artwork?

My creative process is progressive. Most times, the idea arises from questioning the system or events in society and human struggles. Then, I gather suitable references to represent the idea on canvas. While sketching or painting, I consider adding other elements to the composition until I feel fulfilled with the piece.

Where do you find your inspiration for your art? Are there specific themes or subjects that continually interest you?

I find inspiration everywhere for my art, from personal experiences in navigating each day to the ills of society. Mainly, I focus on themes such as socio-politics, African spirituality, and the evolution of African culture over time and history.

Many artists incorporate personal experiences into their art. How does your art reflect your own life journey and emotions?

Every piece is a reflection of the questions in my head or re-imaginations of the reality I experience. ■

As above...as within... the answers we seek,

Oil on canvas 152 × 152 cm

“The profound interconnectedness between the macrocosm and the microcosm, emphasizing the idea that what exists on a larger scale is mirrored within ourselves. This artwork capture the essence of Africa as a source of wisdom and enlightenment, suggesting that the answers we seek can be found within this diverse and culturally rich continent.

The phrase “as within, so without” serves as a guiding principle, encouraging individuals to look inward and reflect on their own experiences, emotions, and beliefs, recognizing that they are intricately connected to the external world.

The artwork pays homage to Africa’s rich heritage and its role as a cradle of civilization, highlighting the continent’s immense contributions to humanity’s collective knowledge. It serves as a reminder that Africa holds a wealth of wisdom, traditions, and insights that can guide us in our quest for understanding and enlightenment”.–Bukola

FRANCESCA AUTINO

Artist Interview

Francesca Autino, hailing from Italy, is an enthusiastic artist residing in the serene ambiance of Southern France, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and lavender fields.

Drawing inspiration from this dream-like environment, her watercolor and acrylic artworks come to life. Through her work, she has uncovered the profound healing power of colors, each possessing its own coded language that illuminates the soul.

Could you walk us through your typical creative process, from the initial idea to the finished artwork?

My creative process is one of spontaneity, embracing a space of freedom and playfulness. I aim to share the joy I feel with the world through my vibrant and luminous creations. To achieve this, I begin with a spontaneous approach, reveling in the feeling of freedom as I play with colors on the canvas and build layers. This process fills me with happiness and vitality, and I trust in it, bravely making bold decisions. As the work nears its completion, my analytical mind takes charge, ensuring the final result respects aesthetic principles, though I also welcome imperfection and the allure of an incomplete vision.

Where do you find your inspiration for your art? Are there specific themes or subjects that continually interest you?

The sea, sky, and flowers hold a mesmerizing fascination for me; they possess an eternal yet ever-changing beauty, radiating with light and bursts of color. Observing them enriches the soul with an unending sense of wonder. Acrylic paint aligns perfectly with my artistic practice, allowing me to work intuitively.

Its rapid drying and the possibility of layering enable me to create an infinite array of unexpected colors, which transform with the shifting play of light. The colors meld spontaneously with shapes, embracing them to create a dynamic and vibrant whole.

Many artists incorporate personal experiences into their art. How does your art reflect your own life journey and emotions?

Art is the conduit through which I can share my love with the world, filling spaces with a gentle joy that enlivens all the senses. When I’m not painting, I find relaxation and inspiration in playing the piano, my favorite instrument. The harmonious notes of music blend with the magical language of colors, making painting an act of pure love, both for myself and others. Since my childhood, I’ve been driven by a heartfelt desire

to help others, bringing smiles to saddened faces and brightening the lives of those around me. Painting has allowed me to share my affection for people, and witnessing the joy and upliftment it brings to others touches my heart. Each expression of gratitude serves as a reminder of my purpose and instills the courage to continue on this artistic journey. ■

Peaceful / Acrylic on canvas / 40cm x 40cm

JOHN BACON

John Bacon began his relationship with the visual arts as a collector. An avid collector of abstract art since the early 1990s, Bacon eventually began creating abstract works himself.

JOHN BACON

Artist Interview

Primarily non-representational, Bacon’s paintings use color and form distinctively, leading him to develop new techniques and color relationships within his work. His process, largely intuitive, forgoes the use of pre-determined plans.

The paintings proceed from beginning to end by letting the canvas speak and show the way. This process leads to a style that is uninhibited and presents infinite possibilities. Through his work, he strives to evoke emotional responses, leading viewers to feel as much as they see.

The abstract faces present in John Bacon’s work flow into abstract shapes and forms with a continuity of strong black lines. While Bacon’s anamorphic shapes recall the works of Jean Dubuffet, they often feature abstract faces reminiscent of works by early Modernists and the African masks that influenced artists such as Picasso and Constantin Brancusi.

Could you walk us through your typical creative process, from the initial idea to the finished artwork?

I start my paintings without a set plan. I make markings quite randomly with a marker or some paint. Then, I search for areas on the canvas that look interesting to develop. I pick a color to begin with but soon start adding colors to the original color to change it. As the painting develops, it often undergoes changes from the original direction. The process is not so much about what I see as

the painting proceeds but what I feel. The joy is in seeing the finished product, realizing that it began without a plan. For me, this is the joy of creating.

Where do you find your inspiration for your art? Are there specific themes or subjects that continually interest you?

My inspiration lies in the use of color and form to see if I can create energy in the painting.

Many artists incorporate personal experiences into their art. How does your art reflect your own life journey and emotions?

I was a non-artist until 8-9 years ago. I had been a collector of abstract art. On a trip to Santa Fe, my wife, who was a painter, convinced me to do a half-day private painting lesson. I reluctantly agreed and enjoyed it so much that I began to paint. The process was a process of being open to trying new things to develop my style. My hope was that with time, people could view my paintings and recognize them as mine. ■

Unity

Acrylic on canvas 111cm x 144cm

ART BY MARIKEN

Artist Interview

Spinning song

Oil on canvas

30cm x 21cm

After graduating from an art school in The Hague in 1999, specializing in fashion and design, Mariken embarked on a diverse career journey. Initially delving into the realm of fashion, she worked as a stylist, traversing the globe in pursuit of creative inspiration.

Despite her immersion in the fashion industry, Mariken’s passion for art remained steadfast. Motivated by her personal experiences and armed with a newfound creative outlet, Mariken turned to painting as a form of therapy amidst her battle with mental illness. Just two years ago, she embarked on this artistic journey, utilizing her canvas as a means of processing and confronting her inner struggles. This deeply personal narrative imbues her artwork with raw emotion and authenticity, elevating her creative endeavors.

As Mariken’s artistic journey continues to unfold, her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of art in overcoming adversity. Her recent exhibition at Carrousel du Louvre in Paris not only showcases her talent but also embodies the resilience and courage that define her artistic odyssey.

I’m empty please fill me in

Oil on canvas 30cm x 21cm

Could you walk us through your typical creative process, from the initial idea to the finished artwork?

My creative process usually begins with a spontaneous spark of inspiration. I gather materials from my collection of old books and wallpapers, carefully selecting a piece of paper that I color with paint. Next, I create a captivating background on wood and incorporate the colored paper into it. Once the foundation is set, I start sketching the head, often using a pencil to bring the portrait to life.

Where do you find your inspiration for your art? Are there specific themes or subjects that continually interest you?

My art is often inspired by a deeply personal and meaningful theme: mental illnesses. Having experienced and confronted various mental challenges myself, I find this subject to be an endless source of inspiration. Each head I paint reflects the emotions and struggles I experience at that moment, allowing me to express my journey of self- discovery and resilience. My ultimate hope

is to shatter taboos surrounding mental health, as I believe these conditions are still inadequately understood and accepted by society.

Many artists incorporate personal experiences into their art. How does your art reflect your own life journey and emotions?

For me, creating art is more than just a form of self-expression; it is a lifeline to escape the confines of my mental prison. It serves as my medicine, allowing me to cope with the challenges of panic attacks and general fears I encounter daily. Through my artwork, I can breathe freely and release the emotions that might otherwise consume me. I believe that everyone faces fears and struggles, and I refuse to be ashamed of mine. My art serves as a reminder of my humanity and helps me connect with others who may find solace in the shared experience of overcoming mental obstacles. ■

2024’s Cutting-Edge Contemporary Art Trends Unveiled

Conversely, the art world can be both a world of continual change and reliable stability. Certain artistic movements can be considered perennial, they are universally and continually relevant. While others can represent a moment of revolution and flux. What will the art world look like in 2024?

Artio makes predictions for the year ahead.

Abstraction

Abstraction has long been a creative language used to express thoughts, ideas and emotions that cannot be captured figuratively. In 2024, large-scale museum shows such as Tate Modern’s Expressionists and Turner Contemporary’s Beyond Form: Lines of Abstraction explore the idea of abstraction as a radical and experimental vocabulary.

We predict that contemporary artists will continue to expand upon the abstract form to express both personal and global concerns that resist straightforward representation. ■

Portraiture

Portraiture is a genre that examines what it means to be human. It can also function as an important historical and cultural document.

Portraiture is fertile ground for exploring identity and its representation. In the context of a contemporary moment that seeks to spotlight artists who have been historically underrepresented, portraiture becomes even more vital in defining and representing personal and cultural identity. ■

Re-evaluation

2024 will see the celebration of artists and artistic practices that have been left out of the traditional and historical narratives of art (narratives that have been dominated by white male artists). For example, the 60th edition of the Venice Biennale will take place this year under the theme Foreigners Everywhere, showcasing artists who are immigrants, exiles and foreigners. The Metropolitan Museum of Art will explore a major Afro-American movement in The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism. 2024 will see the important work of spotlighting voices that have been historically marginalized. ■

Sustainability

How we respond to the climate emergency is an urgent question. For example, in 2024 London’s Serpentine will host the Infinite Ecologies Marathon, a mid-summer festival bringing together artists, scientists, and activists to investigate environmental interconnection and responsibility.

Creative and practical answers to questions surrounding ecology, sustainability and conservation will be explored by artists and galleries in 2024. ■

Futured Artists: Wallace Woo: CRE08

Olasumbo Wright: It takes a village, Lost youth Jordana Ozier Lafontaine: Sustenance

The London Biennale of Women in Art

Chelsea Old Town Hall, London, England Sept. 25 – 29, 2024

The Biennale of Women In Art is a global art event designed to celebrate contemporary female artists.

Bringing together over 200 artists from over 50 countries, this carefully curated exhibition will provide a unique opportunity for visitors to acquire artwork by new and established talent, and to give voice to previously underrepresented artists.

The Biennale of Women In Art is an important occasion to build upon existing efforts worldwide that strive for more balanced gender representation in the art realm. The exhibition will develop and reinforce the momentum of this movement, providing a platform to showcase the creative ingenuity, unique perspectives, and shared humanity of a global collection of female artists.

We look forward to welcoming thousands of art lovers, interior designers, curators and collectors across 4 days in the heart of West London. The event will incorporate a program of talks and an awards presentation.

In an increasingly interconnected world, artistic expression knows no boundaries. The Biennale of Women in Art celebrates the diverse talents of female artists who have transcended geographical and cultural limits to create works that resonate on a global scale.

Explore the extraordinary female artists selected for the 2024 edition of the London Biennale of Women in Art. ■

TOGO Mixed Media

45cm x 53cm

Birth of Life

Mixed Media

73cm x 73cm

Aki Sakagami is a visionary HADO artist whose works pulsate with spiritual vibrations.

Sakagami, the sole creator of art imbued with HADO, envisions a world where true peace emerges through individual self-love and the pursuit of authentic lives. The artist’s journey is rooted in the belief that global harmony begins when everyone recognizes the importance of self-belief and living their unique paths. In each masterpiece, intricate details and a purposeful color palette serve as a visual language, inviting viewers on a contemplative journey. Sakagami’s art is a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery and inner harmony, resonating with a universal call for authenticity and true peace. ■

AKI SAKAGAMI

Artist

VIRGINIE VANDEPUTTE

Artist

Virginie Vandeputte’s mastery of classical painting techniques is evident in her artistry, shaped by training under notable mentors and rigorous academic pursuits. From studying Van Eyck techniques to graduating from the Florence Academy of Art, her commitment to traditional craftsmanship is unwavering.

Specializing in stained glass and restoration techniques further showcases her versatility. Vandeputte’s works are characterized by technically proficient figurative compositions, meticulously crafted with attention to detail and vibrant use of color. Admired by collectors in NYC and Paris, her art embodies a timeless quality, rooted in ancient traditions dating back to the early 1400s. ■

Chemin Oubli

Fransie Frandsen is a versatile fine artist, writer, and illustrator whose vibrant creations transcend boundaries. Born in Cape Town and enriched by diverse cultural experiences from her global travels, Fransie now calls Geneva home. With a background in Graphic Design and Art Psychotherapy, her art is a fusion of personal narratives and societal observations. Drawing inspiration from her interactions with marginalized individuals, Fransie’s work serves as a powerful conduit for shedding light on overlooked societal issues, embodying the essence of Artivism.

Through the incorporation of 3D objects, she invites viewers to explore alternate dimensions, engaging them in a profound dialogue. Fransie’s artistic repertoire extends to the realm of children’s literature, where her writing and illustrations captivate young minds. Utilizing mixed media techniques and imbuing her creations with unique figures and captivating textures, Fransie’s artwork transcends traditional boundaries, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it. Join her on a visual odyssey where each piece tells a compelling story and challenges societal norms with unparalleled creativity and insight. ■

Invisible

Mixed media/Acrylics 40cm x 40cm

FRANSIE FRANDSEN Artist

ANNA GIGON

Artist

Anna Gigon is a painter whose mastery extends from the figurative to the abstract. In the figurative domain, the artist employs a classical oil technique, crafting captivating images and narrative scenes that center around femininity and its dynamic relationship with space. Eschewing a deep delve into the psychology of the subjects, the artist intentionally leaves room for viewer interpretation. An exemplary piece within this narrative is ‘The Queen of Hearts,’ where the act of farewell signifies a departure from the paternal aspects of the male figure, expressing a profound desire for freedom post-initiatory passage. The technical prowess and feminist narrative of these portraits find a distinguished showcase at Artio Gallery’s upcoming show at the Museum of European Modern Art in Barcelona, where each stroke and scene invites contemplation and interpretation.

ASHLING BRENNAN

Ashling Brennan’s work embarks on an enchanting artistic odyssey where creativity unfolds through a thoughtfully crafted process. Beginning with an abstract vision, Brennan uses acrylics to layer backgrounds with vibrant colors and textures, allowing paint to flow organically and form captivating patterns. The magic intensifies with quilling, as intricate paper designs come to life through careful bending, shaping, and gluing, culminating in mesmerizing three-dimensional artworks. Inspired by the natural world, Brennan captures the diverse patterns and textures found in landscapes and modern design, while also exploring the intersection of art and science, delving into the emergence of patterns and fractals in both nature and human expressions. The result is a highly detailed, mixed-media masterpieces, where rolled-up book pages add unique textures, enriching Brennan’s artistic narrative with depth and complexity. ■

Artist

BELINDA

Artist

Captive Beauty

Fine liner on paper 55cm x 36cm

SALDEN

Belinda Salden’s transformative journey after a cancer diagnosis is vividly reflected in her intricate works. Confronting the stark reality of an altered identity and disrupted routines, Salden embarked on a courageous quest for self-discovery, ultimately finding solace and expression in her unique visual language.

Within the strokes of her creations, laughter and tears, strengths and vulnerabilities, fears, and desires intertwine to offer an intimate narrative of her profound experience. As a draftsman, Salden’s pen acts as an extension of her self, while the allure of acrylic paint beckons when colors call. Her surrealist world unfolds on the canvas, revealing not only the artist’s personal journey but also feminist themes that underscore resilience and strength. Salden’s art, intricate and detailed, becomes a conduit for both personal and universal narratives, inviting viewers to explore the complexities and emotions woven into each mesmerizing piece. ■

Het Eerste Licht Fine liner on paper 45cm x 35cm

/ Acrylic, linocut, transfer on canvas / 120cm x 72cm

ICÔNE

CHRIS MARGOBLOU

Artist

Chris Margoblou’s artwork is shaped by the shadows of a declining industrial town and a turbulent upbringing, where solitude and observation birthed a passion for art. Discovered at the age of seven, a discarded blue book on great painters became the catalyst for a lifelong commitment to painting as a means of expression, liberating the artist from the constraints of dyslexia. Graduating from the Ecole de Condé in Lyon, France, with a focus on art photography, the artist rejected rigid techniques for spontaneity and intuition. Committing to independent study in painting, the artworks serve as poignant reflections of the heart’s feelings, the soul’s words, and the solitude of humanity, embracing feminist themes, vibrant colors, and alluring figures to convey life’s intricate cycles and enduring resilience. ■

CAMILLA FRANSRUD

Camilla Fransrud is a Norwegian painter and photographer. From her early self-taught forays into photography, capturing the essence of the ocean, to her current role by the sea in Trondheim, family and nature form the core of Fransrud’s inspiration.

Venturing into painting in 2019, she skillfully blends acrylics, chalk, palette knives, and mixed media to create layered and emotive canvases. Fransrud, driven by an intuitive connection to the northern lights, seamlessly navigates between abstraction and figuration, seeking to evoke emotions and transport viewers to emotional landscapes. Her art invites tactile engagement, encouraging beholders to feel the paintings in their fingertips. As she paints with heart and breathes life into each creation, Fransrud’s work becomes a conduit for shared emotions and dreams, offering a moment of poetic stillness and inviting all to join her on a captivating journey through her beautifully crafted world. ■

The Road to my house

Acrylic on canvas 30cm x 30cm

Artist

CAROLINE HERCK

Artist

Caroline Herck’s captivating artwork is inspired by the intricate human experience within challenging inner states. The artist’s source of inspiration lies in the transformative journey through conditioning environments, exploring resistances sculpted within the inner self. Amidst emotional chaos, the pandemic became a poignant chapter, a catalyst for the deep desire for inner change, leading to a reconnection with the authentic inner space of creation. With unwavering support and guidance, the artist learned the freedom of choice in facing challenging circumstances, echoing the potential for growth within. The Lobster emerges as a symbolic muse, reflecting resilience and growth, mirroring the immense potential concealed in childhood. Each detailed and technically beautiful painting serves as a harmonious blend of colors, resonating with meaningful themes and bearing witness to the artist’s profound exploration of the human spirit’s resilience. ■

Stuck

Oil painting on oil paper mounted on wood 36cm x 24cm

Destiny Red clay and glass 34cm x 31cm x 26.5cm

ECE AFACAN

Artist

Look for

Red clay and glass 20x19x2cm

Ece Afacan’s affinity for ceramics began at the age of thirteen. Graduating as the top student from Hacettepe University Fine Arts Faculty’s ceramic glass department in 2008, Afacan’s talents soon gained international recognition. Collaborating with renowned artists such as Vladimir Klein, Frantisek Janak, and Chad Holliday, she honed her skills in cold glass sculpture and kiln casting. Afacan’s artistic prowess shone through with numerous awards in Italy, an invitation to the Venice Biennial of Nations, and recognition in New York’s contemporary art scene. Her journey continued to flourish, with solo exhibitions, acquisitions by prestigious collections, and international showcases. Renowned for her delicate, detailed, and emotionally resonant pieces, Afacan’s unique artworks have captivated curators worldwide, solidifying her place in the global art landscape. Explore her evocative creations, where each piece is a testament to her unwavering dedication and artistic brilliance. ■

GABRIELA MADRAZO GOMEZ

Gabriela Madrazo is a self-taught artist from Guadalajara, Mexico, exploring the material essence of art through intuitive layers of color and pigment. With a background in interior design and communication, Gabriela’s versatile mastery of various artistic disciplines, from ceramics to acrylic, oil, and watercolor, allows her to seamlessly navigate techniques, scales, and materials.

Grounded in personal essence, her purpose is to connect with viewers in a disinterested space, stimulating senses and evoking diverse interpretations within a given environment. Her art, marked by layers, transparencies, spontaneous scratches, and repetitive elements, weaves a complex narrative reflecting the fleeting moments and intricacies of life, offering a uniquely beautiful and abstract addition to interior spaces with profound meaning. ■

Artist

Caos 1 - Serie “Inherent” Mixed media on canvas 120cm x 80cm

Caos 2 - Serie “Inherent” Mixed media on canvas 120cm x 80cm

Dive into the meticulous and conceptual world of Hannah Robinett, a versatile artist based in Brooklyn, New York.

HANNAH ROBINETT

Sessions I

With expertise gained from 15 years as an interface designer in New York City, Robinett seamlessly incorporates graphic design and color theory into her work, spanning drawing, screenprinting, painting, and murals. Her artistic journey draws inspiration from illuminated manuscripts of the 12th century, offering a contemporary take on these historic guides to prayer. Through a meticulous process involving reading a Psalm, selecting representative colors, and applying gold leaf, Robinett crafts detailed and meaningful works that echo the quiet stillness of prayerful repetition. Exhibited in solo and group shows nationally and internationally, her art captures the essence of intricate and thoughtful creations, showcasing the enduring beauty of her meticulous manuscripts. ■

Artist

Canvas, paper, gold leaf 76cm x 50cm

Grady Zeemam is a contemporary South African painter whose artistic prowess emerged after a successful career as a Fashion Designer.

GRADY ZEEMAM

Graduating from Cape Technicon in 1988, she transitioned back to her hometown to delve into her true passion, painting. Zeeman’s artistic journey gained momentum when she adorned a local restaurant’s roof with an African-themed exhibition space, a pivotal moment that sparked a dedicated exploration of technical skills and Art History. Since her first international exhibition in 2008, she has showcased her feminist- themed works at prestigious events worldwide, including the Florence Biennale and London Biennale. In October 2020, she celebrated her first solo exhibition in Rome, Italy, marking a significant milestone in her career. Zeeman’s art, represented by galleries in NY, Paris, Toronto, and beyond, beautifully captures the nuanced experiences of women navigating life’s lessons. With numerous awards, international acclaim, and the African Excellence Award for Contemporary Artist of the Year in 2022, Zeeman’s vibrant narratives continue to resonate globally, celebrating feminine strength and resilience. ■

She learned to have faith in her abilities Oil on canvas 71cm x 71cm

“Beyond Borders” exhibition, hosted by ARTIO GALLERY at the European Museum of Modern Art in Barcelona, Spain. October 11-13th, 2024

www.artiogallery.com

exhibit@artiogallery.com