UPComing publication on oct. 16th
Andrew Gilbert
Andrew Gilbert is a renowned Scottish artist and educator who currently lives and works in Berlin, Germany. His dedication to his art has earned him local and international recognition. In his remarkable and thought-provoking works on paper and large-scale installations, Gilbert skilfully combines historical facts with fictitious situations, intertwining the visionary with the absurd. His creativity is often inspired by incidents related to colonialism, particularly that of the British Empire, a theme that resonates deeply in contemporary discourse. Gilbert powerfully portrays the cyclical nature of history through vivid visual metaphors, revealing the complicated ramifications of 19th-century imperialism on contemporary society. His work not only examines colonial propaganda in popular culture and literature but also invites viewers to critically engage with the narratives constructed by those in authority. By challenging the Western-controlled narrative and pervasive nostalgia for empire today, Andrew Gilbert compels us to confront our shared past and its lasting repercussions.
Following recent social and political developments, the inquiries raised by Andrew Gilbert, presented with dark humorous and often brutally honest manner, are more relevant and pressing than ever, urging us to reflect on our shared history and its continuous influence on our current world. His thought process is carefully curated to allow a deeper understanding of the cultural ramifications of historical events that continue to shape modern identities. The intricacies he brings to light force audiences to ponder the intricate maze of memory, identity, and historical legacy that underpins contemporary society. Each piece does not merely serve as a reminder of times gone by, but also as a call to action, inviting the spectator to not only witness but also respond and partake in a dialogue that transcends time itself. He has visited four times in South Africa to study the battlefields of the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War, the Boer War and the military campaigns of Shaka Zulu.
Andrew has exhibited his works in various international private and public venues, in Europe as well as in South Africa, Japan, and China. These exhibitions have not only showcased his work but also sparked discussions about the issues he addresses, encouraging audiences to consider complex social problems from different perspectives. His art reflects the modern struggle to understand and reconcile with the past, and each venue he exhibits in becomes a stage for critical inquiry and meaningful conversation about the impact of colonial history and its contemporary interpretations. The dialogue initiated through his art continues long after the exhibitions close, challenging viewers to reconsider their own roles within the ongoing narrative of societal evolution.
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