LONDON.- Bartha Contemporary is exhibiting, Leap Before You Look, by the German artist Henrik Eiben. The artists fifth solo exhibition with the gallery opened on Thursday, October 12th, 2023.
Leap Before You Look showcases a collection of Henrik Eibens most recent works, exploring innovative forms and mediums and presenting an array of captivating pieces that reflect the artists diversified approach. The exhibition's title, which echoes a poem by British-American poet W.H. Auden, introduces an overarching theme of peril. Indeed, Audens lines, The sense of danger must not disappear, find reflection in the artworks acute, razor-like edges, unlikely physics, or enticing tactile surfaces, which conceal shattered glass elements.
Known for his multi-faceted compositions, Eibens work traverses multiple mediums and scales, constantly pushing the boundaries of form and colour. Goudon Wanda, a large relief installed on the gallerys curved back wall, is an excellent example of the artists use of modern materials and striking colours. The composition pierces into the space as overlapping planes of coloured acrylic create an active interplay between the work and the viewer.
The innovative use of unorthodox materials, tactically applied, signifies many of Eibens pieces. Voyager Wanda, a work conceived of Cashmere, mouthblown Glass and wood, beautifully exemplifies this clever and provocative application. Here, the work invites a reexamination of the intrinsic worth of each material, promoting a discourse that extends beyond aesthetics into societal and philosophical exploration.
This exhibition is devoted solely to Eibens wall-mounted and suspended sculptures. Envisioned as a mini-retrospective, it amalgamates creations that have emanated from central concepts within the artists oeuvre over the preceding two decades. The display is not a mere Best Of compilation but offers a distilled and balanced overview of Eibens practice.
Bartha Contemporary
Henrik Eiben: Leap Before You Look
October 12th, 2023 - November 12th, 2023