Elizabeth Xi Bauer presents an exhibition of new works by Gokula Stoffel in conversation with Alexandra Zarins’ most recent series of paintings. Both Alexandra Zarins and Gokula Stoffel work extensively with figuration – across various mediums – to create a magical, oneiric universe. Rather than implying the human figure to create idyllic narratives, both artists share a taste for the mysterious, evident in their use of a darker palette and in the way they portray their subjects. Angular bones, mischievous eyes, fleshy limbs are all recurring motifs in both Stoffel and Zarins’ paintings. Their subjects appear to be caught between two worlds: this one and one of wild delights. It is the first time Stoffel’s and Zarin’s works have been exhibited together. This exhibition continues the Gallery’s series of first time dialogues, initiated with Phantom Dance, an exhibition which for the first time showcased works by Theodore Ereira-Guyer and Thiago Barbalho together. What draws together these two emerging artists is their connection to their predecessors: Paula Rego, Dorothea Tanning and Leonora Carrington, all of which explored a realm in which dreams hunt us rather than offer comfort.
