A solo show by Rini Hurkmans
Rini Hurkmans‘ solo show Pietà, Millefleurs at Lumen Travo Gallery examines contemporary ethical issues through art, focusing on themes of absence, loss, ethics, and politics. Hurkmans’ exploration began during her MoMA PS1 residency in 1992 when she acquired a press photo of Michelangelo’s Pietà, taken just after the sculpture was attacked in 1972. The image of the Pietà, depicting a mother holding her deceased son, symbolizes profound loss and raises questions about human interaction and ethical conduct amidst societal and environmental crises.
The exhibition also draws inspiration from La Dame à la Licorne, a series of six tapestries from the late 15th century, featuring the millefleurs style and symbolizing the five senses and the heart. Hurkmans brings together these tapestries’ delicate floral motifs with the Pietà theme to explore the disruption of human values and natural harmony. The show includes 55 woven pieces inspired by white blooming spring flowers, alongside sculptures, photo and video works. By intertwining historical and contemporary art, Hurkmans invites viewers to reflect on humanity and the environment, encouraging a re-evaluation of our relationships with each other and the natural world.
Join us at the gallery for the festive opening on Friday, 13 September, from 17:00 until 21:00 hrs.
