In the heart of Tbilisi’s evolving art scene, The Why Not Gallery has curated two compelling exhibitions that delve into the depths of time, memory, and environmental consciousness. The exhibitions, titled “Slow Sun” by Erekle Chinchilakashvili and “Fictionfunctionfiction” by the artist collective Garbage Kids, offer visitors a dual journey through personal and collective histories, as well as a bold critique of modern overconsumption. These exhibitions explore both the internal landscapes of human experience and the external consequences of our socio-environmental reality, all while embracing a poetic and visually arresting aesthetic.
Exploring Time and Memory
Erekle Chinchilakashvili’s “Slow Sun” presents a series of paintings that capture the paradoxical nature of time—constant yet elusive, ever-present yet slipping away. His works are characterized by the soft glow of the evening sun, suspended in moments of ethereal solitude. The sun, a central motif in his work, shines with over-saturated light, almost overwhelming the canvas. This serves as a metaphor for memory—brilliant but fading, warm but distant.
Chinchilakashvili’s landscapes appear caught between reality and reverie, as if viewed through a window blurred by sunlight. These spaces evoke a sense of quiet isolation, where time seems to stretch out indefinitely, yet the details of the moment are already beginning to dissolve. His paintings invite viewers to reflect on the fragility of memory, which, like the light of a setting sun, grows dimmer the longer we stare at it.
In his previous works, such as “In a Puddle of Rust a Faded Memory Drips” exhibited in Budapest in 2023, Chinchilakashvili has shown a similar engagement with themes of individual and collective memory. His multidisciplinary approach, incorporating painting, installation, and video, allows him to explore the complexities of human perception in constantly shifting contexts. In “Slow Sun,” his artistic voice is at its most contemplative, reflecting on the passage of time with a soft, melancholic light.
Vibrant Expressions of Memory
Contrasting Chinchilakashvili’s quiet reflections, Sopo Mamaladze’s abstract compositions in “Slow Sun” are vibrant and visceral. Her works capture the emotional dynamism of memory as it twists and transforms. For Mamaladze, memory is not a static image frozen in time but a living, breathing force that changes shape with every passing moment. Her paintings feel like visual symphonies of emotion, where bold hues and fluid shapes echo the turbulence of human experience.
Mamaladze’s use of color and form creates a sense of movement and energy, disrupting the stillness with bursts of life. Her works challenge viewers to engage with their own memories, recognizing them as dynamic and ever-changing. This approach contrasts sharply with Chinchilakashvili’s more subdued and contemplative style, offering a complementary perspective on the theme of memory.
The interplay between these two artists’ works creates a rich dialogue within the exhibition, inviting viewers to consider the multifaceted nature of memory. While Chinchilakashvili’s paintings evoke a sense of quiet reflection, Mamaladze’s compositions burst with the vibrancy of lived experience. Together, they provide a comprehensive exploration of how we perceive and remember the world around us.
Environmental Consciousness and Critique
The artist collective Garbage Kids’ “Fictionfunctionfiction” takes a bold stance on modern overconsumption and its environmental impact. Their works are a critique of the waste and excess that characterize contemporary society. Through a combination of found objects, recycled materials, and mixed media, Garbage Kids create installations that highlight the consequences of our throwaway culture.
Their approach is both visually striking and thought-provoking, using art to raise awareness about environmental issues. The installations challenge viewers to reconsider their own consumption habits and the impact they have on the planet. By repurposing discarded materials, Garbage Kids not only critique overconsumption but also demonstrate the potential for creativity and sustainability in art.
The exhibition’s focus on environmental consciousness is timely and relevant, addressing pressing issues that affect us all. Garbage Kids’ works serve as a call to action, encouraging viewers to think critically about their role in the global ecosystem. Their art is a powerful reminder of the need for sustainable practices and the importance of environmental stewardship.
The Sun, the Earth, and the Stories in Between” at The Why Not Gallery offers a profound exploration of time, memory, and environmental consciousness. Through the works of Erekle Chinchilakashvili, Sopo Mamaladze, and Garbage Kids, the exhibition provides a rich and varied artistic experience that invites reflection and engagement. It is a testament to the power of art to illuminate the complexities of human experience and the world we inhabit.
