Elisa Crossing's paintings are a captivating journey through the artist's unique artistic language, blending cerebral conceptual frameworks with sensuous resolutions. Her exhibition at the Civic Art Bureau showcases 19 'clever paintings' that challenge and intrigue viewers, inviting them to explore and discover their own realities within the artwork. One of the key aspects of Crossing's work is her fascination with the interplay between the observable world and her own creative interpretations. She loves playing with the idea of placing paintings within paintings, merging interior and exterior spaces, and using reflections and patterns to create a sense of ambiguity and intrigue. This approach is evident in her exhibition, where she invites viewers to question the boundaries of reality and perception.
The titles of her paintings and exhibitions, such as 'Slow looking' and 'Move me!', further emphasize her interest in the active and embodied nature of looking. By challenging the viewer's expectations, she encourages them to engage with the artwork on a deeper level. For instance, the painting '5 o'clock shadow' captures the colloquial meaning of the title, presenting an interior space filled with afternoon shadows that hint at a sense of the uncanny, blending the familiar with the eerie.
One of the most ambitious works in the exhibition is 'Intermission', which combines a fragment from Jean-Honoré Fragonard's 'The Swing' with various interior spaces. This layering of lush realities with the spartan realities of the studio creates a surface tension that is both seductive and intriguing. Similarly, 'Press play' features a frame-within-a-frame reference, suggesting a mixture of different realities, further emphasizing Crossing's ability to manipulate and challenge the viewer's perception.
Throughout the exhibition, Crossing presents a series of visual entrapments that seduce the viewer who pauses long enough to create their own narratives. Her paintings are carefully observed and beautifully realized, inviting viewers to explore and discover their own interpretations. The exhibition 'Move me!' at the Civic Art Bureau is a testament to Crossing's unique artistic vision and her ability to engage and challenge her audience.
In my opinion, Elisa Crossing's work is a fascinating exploration of the relationship between the observable world and the artist's imagination. Her ability to blend cerebral concepts with sensuous resolutions creates a captivating and thought-provoking experience for viewers. The exhibition 'Move me!' is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art and the power of visual storytelling.
