Una Lekuze’s solo exhibition Echo is an insight into the artist’s individual miniature world, where peace and sense of order are apace with something miraculous. “My main goal in painting is to constantly challenge myself. Every artwork is like a new task, although it often “grows up” into something completely different,” says Lekuze about her creative approach.
The exhibition consists of the latest works of the painter inspired by the language of art that is saturated with Medieval and Early Renaissance symbolism and allegories. Several of the works are devoted to the theme of painting, in which a literal expression of the old masters can be read – the painting itself can serve as content. Lekuze’s favorite motives are fairy tales and folklore, as well as proverbs from all around the world.
Echo presents certain images and motives inspired by the tales from Azorean Islands, Indonesia, and Portugal. Sometimes only through a fairy tale, the miraculous and the impossible can be seen and recognized today. The metaphorical language of fairy tales is perfect for Una, if she wants to express something or to do the opposite - to remain silent, leaving an interpretation between the artwork and the spectator to envelop.
The themes and motives of historical painting styles (Medieval, Renaissance, Art Nouveau) and fairy tale characters are the creative area in where Una can freely express the qualities of her artistic manner. Figural composition, nudes, portraits and still life are the genres in which she specializes. Active rhythms are combined with a delicate and academic drawing. Una has a delicate and elegant sense of colour - the bright and saturated colour alternates with monochrome tones, complemented by flowing and nuanced use of light and shade. She has also created her own author’s technique, which in combination with classical oil painting gives a unique visual effect. The presence of ornament is also one of Lekuze’s unique features of the artistic style. The ornament adds an ancient and unusual mood to the fairy tale image in her artwork.
Artworks in author's technique are exhibited for the first time. As well as ink drawings and monotypes – other creative ways for Una to expand her creative horizon.