As a connoisseur of art with a penchant for the introspective and a soft spot for the atmospheric, Danielle Mckinney‘s solo exhibition at Galerie Max Hetzler, titled “Haven,” has left me spellbound. Having traversed through countless galleries and exhibitions, I can confidently say that this body of work stands out as a testament to the power of visual storytelling.
Danielle Mckinney blends the intimate world of home with the expansive landscape of atmosphere. Her artwork originates on blank canvases, with subjects emerging through a dramatic interplay of light and shadow (chiaroscuro). In her debut solo exhibition at Galerie Max Hetzler titled Haven, Mckinney introduces visual verse to Berlin, presenting a collection of oil paintings and fresh watercolor works on paper.
As a trained photographer, Mckinney artfully depicts moments of deep thought. Her characters are often seen relaxing on sofas, engrossed in reading material. The atmosphere of Haven seems to permeate beyond the picture’s boundaries. By using visual elements from social media and old magazines, the artist creates a sense of timelessness in her personal compositions, as subjects indulge in both physical and mental solitude.
The main focus of the show is its titled artwork. This painting depicts a woman draped in blankets, reclining on a bed adorned with gold. As dawn breaks and light filters through the curtains, a painting of a mystical unicorn subtly illuminates behind her. By drawing upon striking visuals in everyday surroundings, the female characters from Haven find solace within their sacred hideaways.
In a unique way, McKinney transports me into the irresistible and welcoming world of personal seclusion. As the artist herself admits in her gallery statement, “I immerse myself within those spaces.” My aim is simply to keep them inviting enough so that people can feel at ease wandering in.
Haven is now on view at Galerie Max Hetzler through October 26, 2024.
Galerie Max Hetzler
Bleibtreustraße 15/16
Berlin, Germany
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2024-09-17 23:26