MY JOURNEY SERIES
“I feel like I’m creating a mosaic from these small paintings. It is an interesting journey, bringing it to life. Each piece is independent and yet an integral part of the whole.
I feel an excitement, a happy feeling throughout the process. Creating this mosaic is a puzzle that is inspiring and freeing.
Let’s be directed by this motto: ‘Let’s create something great - and even better’.”
Conceived in 2019, this series of gem-like and playful small works urges the collector to create a mosaic according to their imagination and feelings.
The title references Lagidze’s own creative journey and captures his philosophy of sharing experiences in harmony and gratitude.
Each work is 35 x 32cm
Levan Lagidze, 2019
My Journey, Composition No. 26
oil on canvas, 35 x 32cm
private collection
Levan Lagidze, 2019
My Journey, Composition No. 9
oil on canvas, 35 x 32cm
private collection
“I believe that in today’s world art carries a mission for harmonious existence and happiness. A relationship with painting is a participation in this infinite happy game.”
Levan Lagidze, 2019
My Journey, Composition No. 28
oil on canvas, 35 x 32cm
private collection
Levan Lagidze, 2019
My Journey, Composition No. 12
oil on canvas, 35 x 32cm
private collection
“Inside every square of Levan Lagidze’s work is a separate universe. His world, his art, is a great galaxy.
Perceiving his paintings depends upon distance ... as one moves ever closer one’s approach seems endless and one discovers ever more numerous and increasingly minute universes within.”
Lagidze’s abstract paintings amplify the rich, cultural essence of his home country. Here you see Georgia come alive with hidden colours and deep textures.
Levan Lagidze, 2019
My Journey, Composition No. 13
oil on canvas, 35 x 32cm
private collection
Gergeti Trinity Church in Kazbegi, Georgia, (c) Arrivals Productions
Taking at least one month to complete, each painting is worked on day and night – instead of leaving his studio, Lagidze invites friends and family to visit him whilst he works. Sometimes providing a ‘party like’ atmosphere for his creative process.
Prepping the canvas into a grid, he works with one square at a time using a paintbrush and a palette knife, concealing and revealing layers of paint until he is satisfied. At the end of the process, he applies several layers of gloss that bring out the depth and life of the colours.
The rhythmic use of line and colour creates a mesmerising harmony while the canvases reflect the multicoloured nature of the world, with blocks of colour both at the forefront and hidden to be discovered by the viewer.
Levan Lagidze is one of Georgia’s most significant living artists whose work is held in the permanent collections of major museums.
Heralded as a legend by many, and a philosopher by others – generous yet reclusive, expansive yet hidden and inspirational yet humble. Lagidze’s charm and affable nature contrasts with the intensity and punch-like power of his art.
LEVAN LAGIDZE PROMISE
15 - 27 November, 2021
KLG at D Contemporary, 23 Grafton Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 4EY
Monday - Saturday, 11am - 8pm