Carolee Schneemann's Legacy in 'Re-Thinking the Trace' Exhibition

From Action Painting to Tangled Connections

 

Carolee Schneemann performing in 1971, illustration by Agnes Prygiel, 2023

Artwork produced during M. Lohrum's performance, Stone Space Gallery, 2022

  

   

    In 1952, art critic Harold Rosenberg coined the term "action painting" to describe the use of expressive bodily movement in artistic creation. This technique, pioneered by Jackson Pollock, found a distinct manifestation in the work of Carolee Schneemann—an enigmatic feminist who explored her own body within the context of cultural norms. In her performance "Up To & Including Her Limits" (1971-76), she drew disorderly lines on sheets of paper while suspended naked in a leather harness. Unable to touch the surface or maintain a position, Schneemann utilized her movements and muscle strength for an exhaustive and dedicated creative process.

 

    Schneemann's influence resonated in the "Re-Thinking the Trace" show at The Stone Space Gallery in East London on May 20th, 2022. During the preview, eight participants, meeting for the first time, drew continuous black lines on large sheets of paper. The resulting artwork, a convoluted explosion of strokes, explored the interplay and clash of lines, forming a tangled eruption of connections.

 

    Conceptual and abstract thinker M. Lohrum orchestrated this captivating show, delving into questions of ownership and authenticity. Participants, including illustrator Cherry Cheuk Hei Kwan, book artist Titus Barker, gallery volunteer Maureen, and conceptual artist Iz Elliott, contributed to the unique collaborative artwork. Responding to a social media advert, they engaged in a drawing experiment guided by specified rules.

 

    The powerful artwork created during the performance is exhibited at The Stone Space Gallery until June 12th, 2022.

 

Agnes Prygiel / 28.05.2022 / London

Multifaceted Artistry of a Young Composer

Dreamnote Unveiled

A Journey into the Multidisciplinary World of Noah Max

Noah Max

   

    I was deeply honored to receive a personal invitation to Noah Max's Dreamnote exhibition at The Tabernacle in Notting Hill. The showcase featured a compelling collection of expressive abstract paintings and emotional portraits.

    Noah, a young yet accomplished creator, primarily delves into the world of music. As a composer and conductor, he founded the Echo Ensemble Orchestra, and his debut album, "Songs of Loneliness," was published by Toccata Music Group in early 2022. His chamber opera, based on John Boyne’s "The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas," explores Max’s Jewish heritage and the history of the Holocaust.

    Diving into Noah’s artistic profile proved captivating, uncovering his mastery in music, paintings, video art, and poetry. Often compared to Baroque composers for his multidisciplinary approach, Noah's talent shines through.

    Displayed at The Tabernacle, "The Candle Lagoon" panels and the portrait of British musician and conductor John Whitfield are truly captivating. The first two pieces were created during a live classical concert, responding directly to the vibrations and emotions evoked by the music. The study for John Whitfield's portrait was crafted in the composer’s final days while battling cancer.

    In a conversation with Noah, I discovered the profound significance of dreams in his life. Much like the visions of the sleeping mind, his paintings invite us into a universe of spontaneous experiences and diverse interpretations. Intuitive paint splashes and broad brush strokes connect Noah with the legacies of Edvard Munch and Keith Haring.

    Meeting this gifted creator, whose artistic exploration spans multiple genres, was truly wonderful. I eagerly anticipate his next projects.

Noah Max - https://www.noahmax.net/

Agnes Prygiel / London / 25.05.2022