The gallery is serene! This is perhaps not suprising given that the artist on show is Hannah Adamaszek. Someone who last showcased in the same gallery, albeit in a slightly different location, over two years ago and whose style is unmistakable.
As seems to befit her dreamlike style, a cocoon like swing chair has been attached from the rafters and the staff are serving pimms! It seems all very English and all very peaceful, which is perhaps just as well given that the grand opening is clashing with a full blown tube strike and getting anywhere in London on this particular day is proving to be a challenge.
Not that this undoubted frustration is ruffling the artist. “I want people viewing my work to feel free, rested and have a sense of tranquility” says Hannah. “With all the chaos of the world, it’s nice to have something simple to look at for inspiration to reflect and relax.”
Indeed, and chaos is all around us on this day of all days, but not in the gallery. The gallery is an oasis of calm, in fact there is a yoga and zen like feel to this show which is perhaps best expressed by the pencil sketches of women in yoga like poses hanging by the door. “It’s made me more aware of my own body and mind” she tells me as she explains that only six months before she started practising yoga. “I always have the feeling of being refreshed after practicing, which I think has translated into my new body of work.”
‘Repose’ is the name of the show! According to Hannah it explores the body and the mind invoking attributes of femininity, spirit and creativity. She talks about captivation, about drawing you in, they certainly have that feel about them. “Surrender” she says, “to what it is and become fully present”. Here we have women who are subtle yet strong and bold yet delicate. It means that each piece, according to Hannah, is balancing these contradictions and providing us with its own unique and mysterious charm.
We’ve spoken to Hannah of course a number of times here on Inspiring City. The first occasion was prior to her first solo outing and then on numerous occasions as she stepped outside of the studio to paint the walls of the city. Her art on the walls of London I always felt fitted particularly well, a serene beauty against the backdrop of a bustling city always struck me as a powerful yet comforting image.
Some of her most recognisable images have come from the streets painting in festivals such as the popular Whitecross Street Party, Upfest and of course Femme Fierce. It was the latter festival, the all female takeover of the Leake Street tunnel, that she recently won the judges prize for best piece of the day. It was quite a win, she was painting alongside some esteemed company!
Her inspiration often comes from quotes or thoughts or moments in time. It is these she tries to capture in her work. Every piece has some form of meaning to it or should I say feeling as only she knows the emotions that went into the creation of each canvas. “Art is not just for viewing but an experience.” says Hannah. I get the impression that she wants to share that experience with us.
‘Repose’ is the second UK solo show from Hannah Adamaszek and is exhibiting at the Curious Duke Gallery on Whitecross Street in London. It will be showing from 9 July 2015 to 1 August 2015.
Hannah Adamaszek Gallery
For more Inspiring City articles featuring Hannah check out:
Interview with Hannah prior to her first solo show
Hannah Adamaszek collaboration with Lucy Lucy
Hannah Adamaszek collaboration with Zabou
Femme Fierce artists 2014
Femme Fierce artists 2015
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