Dear Shaded Viewers,
I was delighted to meet Belgian artist Johan Creten at Almine Rech Gallery in Brussels. His last sculpture show -entitled "Pliny's Sorrow"- is an invitation to calm, beauty and contemplation. Playing with effects of scale and working mostly with bronze, Creten used the space inventively to create a unique atmosphere. There's something spiritual and peaceful about this installation. I was impressed with his eagles, which were both majestic and imposing.
I was also intrigued by a life-size bronze table on which a classical temple had been laid out. The fact that a door allowed you to see what was going on underneath made it even stranger. It had a Lynchian weirdness that I liked.
Creten decided to include a film that was made on the exhibition, showing how the pieces were made and brought to the gallery. It gives us great insight into his creative process and he kindly accepted to share it with us.
"Pliny's Sorrow" can be viewed at Almine Rech Gallery in Brussels until the 23rd of July.
Best,
Philippe