Galli, a Berlin-based artist, challenges viewers with her unique combination of violent imagery and an angular, illustrative style. Her figurative works, reminiscent of cartoonist Quentin Blake’s distinctive illustrations, can be discomforting to behold. Yet, within the sharp-nosed, contorted characters lies an intriguing paradox—they never seem to exhibit anguish. Despite spikes driven through their necks and stigmatic wounds on their feet, there is an air of blind resignation, indicating their acceptance of the grim hand fate has dealt them.
Delving deeper into Galli’s art, one encounters a sense of metamorphosis that permeates her works. Figures appear to float within the frame or linger beneath a weighty layer of black scribbles, evoking a feeling of oppression. Galli masterfully depicts a grotesque ambiguity, seamlessly blending elements of the familiar everyday with the threatening unknown. Take, for instance, the painting featuring a figure seemingly playing a brass horn, intertwined with a thick, yellow snake. This astonishing combination leaves viewers mesmerized, contemplating the hidden symbolism within the piece.
Spanning two floors, the exhibition not only showcases Galli’s paintings but also includes drawings and a few videos. In one of the videos, viewers witness the artist’s impossibly stubby fingers gracefully turning the pages of a cut-out book—a whimsical yet enchanting sight. It is worth noting that Galli herself was barely over a meter tall, a biographical detail that adds depth and intrigue to her artistic journey.
Galli’s art challenges traditional expectations and invites viewers to step outside their comfort zones. Her unique style offers a fresh perspective on the human condition, showcasing the resilience and acceptance found amidst the harshest aspects of life.