Sage Culture is proud to present "ATMOSFERA," a group exhibition that intertwines the essence of Earth's atmospheric layers with the profound emotional and environmental consciousness inherent in the gallery's program. The exhibition showcases the uniqueness of each artist's atmosphere through their processes and resulting works. Launching on March 2nd, this online group exhibition showcases the work of five outstanding artists: Søren Solkær, Mitch Iburg, Brooke Holm, Zoë Powell, and Domingos Tótora, all of which reveal a unique perspective on the natural world and our interaction with it.
"ATMOSFERA," spanning multiple languages to denote 'atmosphere,' delves into the atmospheric science surrounding our planet, safeguarding life by regulating temperature, enabling breathable air, and protecting from harmful UV radiation. This scientific backdrop serves as the foundation for the exhibition, which also captures the abstract notion of 'atmosphere' as perceived through the lens of art. The show fosters a dialogue between the tangible, ethereal layers that protect Earth and the intangible layers of emotional and artistic expression that each artist contributes to the concept of this exhibition's artistic atmosphere.
The Earth's atmosphere, a complex, multi-layered structure crucial for life, starts from the troposphere, where weather phenomena and life as we know it are contained, extending through the stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. Each layer plays a critical role in Earth's environmental protection. This scientific perspective on the atmosphere's protective and life-sustaining functions parallels art's protective and nurturing role in human culture and consciousness.
In "ATMOSFERA," each artist encapsulates their unique atmospheric essence, inviting viewers into their personalized environments shaped by their intimate connection to nature and their medium. This exhibition is a confluence of these diverse atmospheres, offering a space where the scientific and emotional interpretations of 'atmosphere' merge, influencing and enhancing the viewer's experience.
Søren Solkær's "Black Sun" captures the ephemeral beauty of starling murmurations, reflecting the dynamic nature of the atmosphere. His journeys across Europe in pursuit of these natural spectacles have inspired a series of images that resemble ink drawings or calligraphic strokes against the sky, earning global acclaim. Solkaer's work invites meditation on collective behavior and the mesmerizing patterns within the Earth's atmospheric stage.
Mitch Iburg explores geological history through ceramics, connecting with the tropospheric aspects of the atmosphere where Earth's surface meets the air. His "Field Studies (09/23)" documents the dynamic results of foraged Minnesota clays fired in a wood-burning kiln, each piece uniquely synthesizing Earth and fire. Iburg's profound engagement with the natural world challenges conventional ceramic traditions, fostering a dialogue between ancient geological phenomena and contemporary artistic practice.
Brooke Holm's aerial photography, especially her "Mineral Matter II" series, transcends traditional topography portrayals, encouraging viewers to consider atmospheric influences on Earth's surface. Holm investigates the bonds between humans and natural environments, emphasizing nature's sublime elements and our impact upon them. Her work, presented in large-scale prints, exploits the human appetite for beauty, influenced by observation sensibilities and the emotional impact of space.
Zoë Powell creates organic sculptural vessels from locally sourced clays and minerals, viewing her work as an exercise in sustainability. Her series focused on transitional space evokes a sense of comfort in viewers, bringing an ethereal aspect to the exhibition with sublime, feather-like sculptures and elegant works that resemble wind-shaped creations.
Domingos Totora's commitment to sustainability is evident in his choice of recycled cardboard as his primary material. His hand-molded, sun-dried pieces echo the quality of wood, manifesting both the robust appearance and the dual nature of lightness and heaviness inherent in his works. Totora's process reflects a deep connection to his roots and a sensitivity towards the environment.