Georgian artist makes an impression at first solo show in NY

Vibrant canvases expressively showing fragmented figures and objects decorated the walls of a leading New York art gallery in an exhibition showcasing the work of a Georgian abstract artist.

On August 5 the Half Gallery exhibited several creations by Georgian-born, Vienna-based painter Tamuna Sirbiladze in her debut American solo show, titled ‘Take it Easy.’

Hung on the walls of two floors of the gallery, Sirbiladze’s paintings were described as incredibly beautiful and unique. A fleeting glance and you won’t fully appreciate her works; you must look quite closely with an open mind to conceive the extremely emotional imagery living within the shadows of the colours.

Tamuna Sirbiladze, Pomegranate, 2015. Photo by Half Gallery.

Sirbiladze, the widow of Austrian contemporary artist Franz West, also painted the gallery walls jungle-green, giving the installation an easy way of involvement and perception.

Her work made references to other artists as well while still remaining quite personal.

Tamuna Sirbiladze, ‘L Vase’ (2015). Photo by Half Gallery.

Sirbiladze is the daughter of an artist and a fan of Rembrandt, Goya, and Impressionism. She knew from a very young age she wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a painter. To pursue her dream she studied art at Tbilisi State Academy then continued her professional education at the Vienna State Academy.

The artist said she had visited New York many times in her life and really liked the Half Gallery as it had the feeling of being a domestic place, however her works were so expressive and not at all domestic; proving to be a nice contrast.

Tamuna Sirbiladze, Eraserhead (2015). Photo by Half Gallery.

Leading British newspaper The Observer highlighted Sirbiladze’s installation in its ‘Eight Things to Do in New York’s Art World Before August 7’ review.