M o n ! a  L i s a


rhizome_

rhizome_ is a non-profit exhibition platform for contemporary art in Kortrijk (Belgium) with its roots in the principle of connective thinking. This results in collaborations with artists, curators and organizations active in the art world.

Exhibition

The nearest exit may be behind you

Francis Vanhoonacker
20.04.2024 – 05.05.2024

Photo © Francis Vanhoonacker

Exotic cars portray a poignant combination of past and present. Once symbols of unrestrained freedom, these cars are now deflated and fallen into decay. They evoke a sense of faded glory and encroaching limitations due to technological progress. The contrast of vibrant colors against the distorted cars deepens the feeling of a bygone era and confronts the viewer with the transience of cultural symbols and the complex nature of ‘freedom’ in a technologically advanced time.

In addition to these still images of dilapidated beauty, there are expressive paintings depicting groups of people in a festive mood. The people are seemingly connected by advertising slogans. The advertising slogans and their inherent lies are a ubiquitous noise serving as a binder for social interaction. The text adds a conceptual layer to the painting, suggesting that advertising promotes joy and camaraderie but also serves as a form of deceit by creating unrealistic expectations. The artist seems to explore the idea of authenticity versus artifice, inviting the viewer to contemplate our understanding of happiness and community.

The paintings feature vibrant and contrasting colors, creating a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. The style appears to be influenced by expressionism or pop art, with subjects outlined in thick black lines, resulting in a graphic effect reminiscent of art from the 60’s and 70’s.

Location: rhizome_, Koning Albertstraat 2, 8500 Kortrijk, Belgium
Open: Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm to 6pm and by appointment
Contact: Monia Warnez, rhizome@monialisa.be

Archive

Overview of the past rhizome_ projects.