ART-PRESENTATION:I See a Darkness

A rebuilt limestone barn located on Lärbro at northeastern Gotland-Sweeden, functions as Galleri Magnus Karlsson’s project space during summertime and 2016 marks their sixth presence throughout the month of July. This year’s exhibition, “I See a Darkness”, presents works by the artists: Roger Andersson, Idun Baltzersen, Sara-Vide Ericson and Klara Kristalova.

By Efi Michalarou
Photo: Galleri Magnus Karlsson Archive

The exhibition “I See a Darkness” borrows its title from the same song  by the American musician and songwriter Will Oldham, performed together with Johnny Cash in one of his last recordings. It is one of the most poignant moment in rock history where they sing about friendship, love and a zest for life, with death and impermanence as a constant companion. This has been central in human cultural expressions throughout our history. Especially in a society where the end becomes even more definite. Parallel with the thoughts of our own mortality, is the fear of the end of the civilization. Terror, wars, refugee crisis, irresponsible world leaders and the climate change create a dark cloud over our existence. Navigation through darkness can be especially difficult in life’s various transitional phases. Roger Andersson, Idun Baltzersen, Sara-Vide Ericson and Klara Kristalova, have all processed the transition between childhood and adult life in various ways in their work. Among other things reflecting on vulnerability and exclusion and focusing on the contrasts of life , dream and wakefulness, reality and fiction, life and death. In a figurative tradition, but with different expressions they all show a deep interest in their material and method. Traditional techniques such as ceramics, printmaking, watercolor and painting, are given a contemporary language by pushing the limits of its possibilities.

Info: Hellvi Kännungs Project Space, Hellvi Kännungs 207, Lärbro, Duration: 9-31/7/16, Days & Hours: Fri-Sun 14:00-18:00, www.gallerimagnuskarlsson.com