London is no stranger to world-class art exhibitions, but every once in a while, an event promises to redefine our understanding of contemporary art. This October, such an event is poised to captivate the capital.
Organised by the renowned FprBuro Communications Agency, the Zari Gallery is set to host a monumental solo exhibition titled “Aliens.” Behind this intriguing collection is the visionary British contemporary artist, gallerist, and founder of ‘Lomaka Gallery,’ Olga Lomaka.
From the 11th to the 15th of October 2023, “Aliens” promises more than just a visual treat. It aspires to be a philosophical voyage, compelling its audience to introspect on the intricate aspects of the human condition. With over twenty unique sculptural works on display, Lomaka seeks to engage visitors in a discourse encompassing themes such as consumerism, human desire, and the collective unconscious. More than that, she aims to position these concepts firmly within the framework of modern popular culture, creating a dialogue that resonates with today’s societal zeitgeist.
Lomaka’s upcoming exhibition is not just for the art connoisseur but also for the curious mind eager to explore the interplay between art, culture, and the myriad facets of human experience. In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, “Aliens” promises to be a beacon, shining a light on both the artist’s unique perspective and the universality of the human experience.
For those planning a visit, ensure you make time to fully immerse in the world Lomaka has crafted. With each sculpture telling its own story and the broader narrative of “Aliens” challenging conventions, this is one exhibition that promises to linger in the minds of its audience long after they’ve left the gallery.
Artist Olga Lomaka studied painting at prestigious institutions, including Loyola University in Chicago, USA, and Central Saint Martins College of Arts in London, UK. Furthering her pursuits, she attended Camberwell College of Arts, University of the Arts London, ultimately earning a BA (Honours) in Painting. Since then, her works have exhibited globally, begetting prestigious honors, such as the esteemed ‘Best Contemporary Artist of the Year’ award bestowed by Phillips Auction House in London.
Inspired by the concept of extraterrestrial visits to Earth, Lomaka reimagines the conventional portrayal of aliens as distinctly dissimilar. Instead, her artworks reveal a striking parallel between these beings and our own human experiences, embodied through two contrasting states – the frenzied act of screaming and the tranquil practice of meditation.
“I see screaming and meditation as the two most vivid articulations of contemporary society. Both distinctly linked to our most sacred desires, which we believe to be true.
— Olga Lomaka
Yet, something we are obsessed with – articulated through screaming – never leads us to the true self. Only in silence and meditation, through dreaming, can we reveal who we really are.”
“Aliens” thrives on a dual juxtaposition, with the first interplay unfolding between the unfamiliar alien realm and the familiar human world. Alien forms are juxtaposed against human desires, finding reflection in their eyes – windows to our modern fixations such as money, love, brands, conflicts, politics, substances, and technology. The monochromatic, fluid structure of the aliens stands in stark contrast to the vibrant, bold logos of brands, flags, and contemporary cultural memes.
The second interplay hinges on the contrast between the sculptures’ two poses: the scream and the meditation. Rooted in Western culture throughout the 20th century, the scream is epitomized by Edvard Munch’s iconic “The Scream” (1893), while meditation gained prominence through the propagation of new age philosophy. These postures are entwined with our collective imagination, embodying both a longing to transcend the tangible world and a yearning to escape into the unknown.