NEON

by Eric Mangen

​

Where? At a big warehouse in Howald, Luxembourg 

25, Rue des Scillas, L-2529 Luxembourg

Open from Saturday-Sunday 14:00 - 18:00

Or by appointment via info@valeriusartgallery.com

​

We are excited to present Eric Mangen’s (b.1983) latest body of work, the "Neon" series, which was started during the first lockdown in spring 2020. After a year long battle, they are finally ready to be shown! Due to the volume, this series will not be presented at the gallery, but shown in a huge warehouse in Howald (25, rue des Scillas, L-2529).

​

The NEON paintings represent a turning point in the artistic development and expression of Eric Mangen. The series was started at the beginning of the first lockdown, in spring 2020. Confronted with these new uncertain times, Eric grounded his inspiration within his studio, where he engaged with redefining new work approaches and deliberately turned around his usual creation process. 

 

As the world was moving at slower rhythm, Eric’s work became more conscious and reflected. He set himself the challenge to create more structured compositions and start with clear and clean shapes. His intention was to seek serenity and balance within simple compositions, where large and calm areas, were enabling smaller elements to run wild. A battle, that lasted over a year. 

 

The particularity of the NEON series are the fluorescent colors that were used. These are the same colors used for emergency vehicles, such as police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks. The paintings are presented with two forms of lightings, white and black light, which have a consequent influence on the composition of the paintings. These stand symbolically for the opposite perspectives one can have upon the times we are confronted to.

 

“The darkest hour of the night came just before the dawn” 

    — Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist