“HEARTSONG” JANA BRIKE
“What I perceive as the feminine soul space, like a garden with both fresh blossoms and decay … Sometimes I havethought I paint children because I cannot be a child myself. I was raised up in a veryrestricted environment. To feel guilty and ashamed for just about everything wasconsidered normal. I kept my wildness and craving to live withopenhearted immediacywell hidden. I am luring that carefree wild child out to live a full life through my art.”
WILLIAM BACZEK FINE ARTS
September 6 - October 7, 2023
William Baczek Fine Arts, nestled in the charming town of Northampton, Massachusetts, is thrilled to unveil a captivating solo exhibition featuring the latest oil paintings by the exceptionally talented artist, Jana Brike. This remarkable exhibition promises to be a visual feast for art enthusiasts and will grace our gallery from Wednesday, September 6 to Saturday, October 7, 2023.
Jana Brike's artistic journey began in the picturesque city of Riga, Latvia, situated in the northeastern corner of Europe. From a tender age, she honed her craft within the corridors of Soviet art schools, fostering a unique perspective and a profound connection to her roots. Her creative wellspring, often referred to as her "poetic visual autobiography," draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of sources.
Her Latvian heritage, steeped in folklore and traditions, plays a pivotal role in her work, as do the ever-changing seasons and the celestial events of equinoxes and solstices. Additionally, Brike's childhood was punctuated by the allure of forbidden Western imagery, juxtaposed with haunting tales of war and deportation shared by her family. Classic mythology and her personal experiences as a woman and mother further enrich the tapestry of her artistic narrative.
This awe-inspiring collection of paintings and drawings presents a diverse array of women, each hailing from different racial backgrounds. Their visages and postures exude an aura of tranquility, determination, or empowerment. Some figures appear to be part of a grand procession or a ceremonial dance, reminiscent of the vibrant traditions of Brike's Latvian heritage, where equinox and solstice celebrations hold profound significance.
Yet, beneath the surface, Brike's art often alludes to pressing global issues such as climate change and social upheaval. Submerged landscapes and the symbolic toppling or incineration of Western societal icons, like crumbling cities, offer poignant commentary on contemporary challenges. However, it's the women who inhabit these vividly imagined worlds who truly steal the spotlight. Fearless and empowered, they seamlessly merge with nature, their bodies intertwined with the flora and earth itself. They embody not merely an existence within nature but rather a profound unity, suggesting innovative ways of coexisting with the planet and its diverse life forms.
In essence, Jana Brike's art invites viewers to contemplate a world where humanity and nature are harmoniously entwined, offering a vision of hope and renewal. It's a testament to her remarkable talent and her ability to weave together the threads of her heritage, personal experiences, and a profound connection to the natural world into a captivating and thought-provoking artistic tapestry. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this extraordinary exhibition at William Baczek Fine Arts.