Cosmic phenomena, spiritual symbolism and dream beautification Lou Benesch‘s mystical watercolor paintings. From a trio of blackbirds hovering above a giant bed on a rugged coastline or a many-faced ram with bells and birds, the Paris-based artist (formerly) draws on the iconography of folklore, fairy tales, Greek myths and symbols of spirituality.
A reassuring invisibleOpening soon at Hashimoto contemporarymarks the artist’s first solo exhibition with the gallery and brings together a collection of otherworldly illustrations that begin with reality but transform into unearthly, imaginary creatures.
In often semi-symmetrical compositions, hybrid animals and unique interactions nod to metamorphosis and metaphysical experiences in surreal landscapes. The edges of each sheet of paper also darken or fade with age, emphasizing the element of time or – as in dreams – timelessness.
Benesch explores what the gallery describes as the “existence of a second, invisible realm accessible only through the portal of dreams.” Stage-like sets, arches and alcoves reveal emblems such as eyes, a miniature labyrinth, the sun and moon, eggs and a series of geometric shapes.
For example, eggs represent hope, fertility and rebirth. Since time immemorial, people have worshiped the sun and moon, which symbolize duality, balance and transition. Benesch adds that the addition of a maze provides a way to “access this universe of contemplation… with an invisible hand guiding us along the paths we forget to see.”
A reassuring invisible runs from November 9 to 30 in Los Angeles. Find more information about the artist website And Instagram.
