The exhibition ‘Paddles for Going in Circles’ by Zwaantje Kurpershoek runs at Kuressaare Raegalerii (Tallinna 2, Kuressaare, Estonia) until 19 April.
Zwaantje Kurpershoek’s first solo exhibition “Paddles for Going in Circles” brings the viewer into a nostalgic childhood world. The artist has displayed two series of works at Kuressaare’s Raegalerii: the installation “The Room of Bornafar” and the painting series “From Me to Nami.”
“The Room of Bornafar” took inspiration from Madeline Miller’s retelling of the Odyssey saga, “Circe,” which tells the story of the relationship between Circe and her son Telegonus (“born afar”). Kurpershoek found Telegonus’ story reflecting generational shifts in hope, like the belief in worldwide continuous progress, and existential fear.
The painting series “From Me to Nami” depicts the silent communication between the artist and her cat Nami. As with “Bornafari Room,” Kurpershoek explores the differences and points of contact between two living beings sharing a living space. Windows, doors, and the in-between areas become both physical and metaphorical borderlands. While Telegonus reflects on leaving home, Zwaantje investigates what connects a soul that shares two homes.
Zwaantje Kurpershoek (1998, Amsterdam) is a Dutch artist who paints, draws, and creates installations and sculptures. Her work often includes objects with sentimental value and humorous found objects, with influences from both Dutch trinkets and Japanese anime and manga.
Photography: Zwaantje Kurpershoek
