Lane Gallery London is pleased to present ‘Fine Pretence,’ a solo exhibition by Grishigiano, on view at First Floor, 12 Saint George Street, SW1 2FB from October 8 to October 18, coinciding with Frieze’s 20th anniversary.
Lane Gallery London is delighted to present ‘Fine Pretence’, a solo exhibition by Ukrainian sculptor Grishigiano, that delves into the complexities of perception, identity, and the ways in which we present ourselves to the world. ‘Fine Pretence’ marks Grishigiano’s first solo exhibition outside of Ukraine, featuring the artist’s recent body of work from 2022-2023.
The title of the exhibition ‘Fine Pretence’ is a play of words, exploring themes of artifice, façade, and the blurring of reality and fiction. The artist invites viewers to reflect on the ways in which we construct our own narratives and the impact of societal expectations on our sense of self. It also encourages the viewers to explore the positive aspects of pretence, such as the power of imagination, the transformative nature of art, and the ability to challenge and expand our understanding and reinventing of reality.
In his work, Grishigiano examines and depicts contemporary human condition, venturing to reveal hidden layers of human identity. The ‘Fine Pretence’ exhibition serves as a reminder that art has the power to challenge our understanding of reality, to expose the intricacies of human nature, and to inspire us to embrace the complexities of our own identities. The viewers are encouraged to engage with the artworks on a personal level, to question their own perceptions and assumptions.
The exhibition is a collection of 13 sculptures that merge abstract and figurative elements, introducing recognizable forms that evoke a sense of familiarity to the human experience. The combination of these elements can be subtle or exaggerated, creating recognizable forms and concepts, derived from the human form. The blurring of boundaries between representation and abstraction, creates a dynamic and rich visual language that challenges traditional notions of representation. It encourages us to contemplate the relationship between form and meaning, the balance between the familiar and the unknown, allowing for a more subjective and open-ended interpretation.
Grishigiano's unconventional artistic career trajectory, from crafting interior items to intricate sculptures, infuses his work with a unique playful approach to mastering his craft. As a self-taught artist, he began fashioning unique jewellery from a combination of aircraft aluminium and wood. As time progressed, his creations expanded in size, evolving into furniture pieces and intricate sculptures. The artist rarely relies on conventional tools and instead uses unique instruments he finds at vintage markets, infusing his work with a distinct personality.
During the initial phase of Grishigiano’s career as a sculptor, he worked with softer materials like aerated concrete, wood, and limestone. As he gradually mastered more pliable materials, marble naturally found its way into his hands. It was during this encounter with marble that the artist experienced an untamed energy unlike anything before. Primitive instincts awakened within him, unveiling newfound sources of strength. ‘I could sense a profound connection with something timeless, an eternal force that existed before me, persists in the present, and will endure long after my time.’
Grishigiano’s main mission is to inspire individuals to recognize the inherent beauty within themselves through his creations. Lane Gallery is proud to invite you on this artistic journey to challenge perceptions, embrace complexity, and celebrate the power of imagination.
For inquiries: info@lanegallerylondon.com