Olal’Art Gallery is preparing to launch “Duet,” a compelling exhibition showcasing works by Dutch artist Julia Winter and French artist Armelle Kergall. After her successful solo show, “OBSERVER,” at The Arts House in Singapore, Julia Winter is back with a collaboration that expands her visual commentary on pressing global issues — including environmental and political struggles, and the complexities of community and human relationships. A conceptual artist known for transforming repurposed materials into thought-provoking pieces that intertwine environmental awareness with rich historical significance, Winter’s global outlook reflects her experiences living across various countries. She investigates themes of displacement and identity, particularly the notion of ‘the other’ within social and political rifts.
At the opening of the “OBSERVER” exhibition, the Dutch Ambassador to Singapore, Ms. Anneke Adema, was present to celebrate and share her thoughts on the event, expressing her appreciation for Julia Winter’s artistic vision, especially regarding the “Macbeth” series, which she found particularly striking.
Julia Winter’s “Macbeth” series is inspired by Shakespeare’s renowned play, exploring themes of power, ambition, and the often tragic consequences of political pursuits. Through a critical and reflective approach, she examines the recurring cycles of history, inviting viewers to scrutinize patterns of manipulation and conflict. As a world traveler with extensive experience in Asia, Winter’s artwork seamlessly blends Eastern and Western influences. Her engagement with Eastern philosophy and calligraphy influences her work’s emphasis on the harmony between humanity and nature. This viewpoint, rooted in the concept of qi, provides her with a distinct perspective for observing the world.
Julia Winter’s artistry, particularly her celebrated “Double Portrait” series — first showcased in 2023 at Olal’Art Gallery — has fascinated audiences with its innovative mixed-media techniques. Using methods like glass portraiture and photography, she explores themes of family, gender, and identity, capturing the richness of the people around her. Winter’s work, including symbolic dolls crafted from recycled textiles, honors the intricate web of societal relationships and the stories that unite us. Her creations foster a visual conversation, encouraging viewers to reflect more deeply on the world.
“Duet” invites contemplation, challenging societal conventions and providing a space for audiences to ponder the shared, and often difficult, aspects of life. Through Winter’s perspective, art transcends mere aesthetics, becoming a powerful call to rethink and reimagine our relationships with the people and environments we encounter daily. Olal’Art Gallery describes her exhibition as aiming to demonstrate that art extends beyond mere visual appeal; it serves as a platform for critical thinking, analysis, and ultimately, the realization of deeper truths.
For Julia Winter’s solo exhibition “Observer,” performance artist Liz ZHU presented a piece titled “This Suit Fits, Yet I Remain Unseen,” which was curated by Olal’art gallery.
Visually, Julia Winter draws inspiration from notable artists like Jannis Kounellis, Joseph Beuys, Christian Boltanski, Louise Bourgeois, and Annette Messager, among others. As both a woman and an artist, she offers a compassionate yet unwavering perspective on significant contemporary issues. The use of recycled materials, textiles, and photography in her work narrates stories of resilience and empathy, prompting audiences to reconsider their roles in society.
Her artistry embodies both strength and compassion, illustrating how women contribute a powerful perspective and a generous heart to the challenges confronting the world, society, and community. Together with Armelle Kergall, “Duet” at Olal’Art Gallery continues this journey, urging viewers to look beyond superficial appearances and cultivate deeper connections with their communities, the environment, and themselves.
Given today’s pervasive political and social climate, the exhibition serves as a timely reminder for audiences to embrace a more expansive vision of humanity and the relationships that shape it. Olal’Art Gallery characterizes Julia’s work as encapsulating Singapore’s vibrant communal spirit, creating dolls from repurposed fabrics that reflect the profound connections and diverse identities within society.
“Duet” is set to run from November 15, 2024, to January 5, 2025, at 27a Arab Street, Singapore.
To learn more about the upcoming exhibition, visit Olal’Art Gallery’s official website at www.olalaworks.com and explore their Instagram page at olal.art.
All photography featured in this article is credited to Eugene Tan.
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