A NEW GOTHIC

Ġulja Holland

Whilst at PADA residency in Lisbon, Holland's work takes on a new narratorial dimension, incorporating new methods by which to portray her subjects. Her fascination with seals reaches a climax in the title work of the exhibition, “A New Gothic”, which towered above audiences within the venue at Spazju Kreattiv. The bold colour she uses and careful method of superimposition which she employs creates a stunning work that speaks volumes of her character as an artist.

Finally, the exhibition showcased some of Holland's most recent works, during her time back in Malta. These pieces are characterised by a more eclectic compositional structure and vibrance in the colours she chooses to use. The techniques employed in paintings like “The Encounter” showcase a strong ambition from the artist to marry the natural and anthropocentric world. The works offer elements of play throughout, capitalising on their somewhat dark undertones in order to speculate on beautiful futures ahead.

Ġulja Holland is proposing a new way of seeing. Through this project she sheds the skins of her subjects in order to speculate on a new equilibrium in the natural world. A NEW GOTHIC was an opportunity for audiences to encounter Holland’s unique work up close and personally. Her unconventional method of art-making will not go unmissed, and speaks volumes of the simultaneous beauty and complexity of our world. At a time that can often feel dark and uncertain, Holland's work offers a sense of hope and beauty.

Curated by Andrew Borg Wirth, A NEW GOTHIC is Ġulja Holland’s fourth solo exhibition and ran till Sunday May 21st.

www.guljaholland.com www.andrewborgwirth.com