Step into a vibrant and surreal world as you enter the exhibition “House of the Lobster – from Pompeii to Venice” by British artist Philip Colbert. Organized by Patricia Low Venezia, this captivating exhibition is hosted at Palazzo Contarini Michiel, a new gallery located on the Grand Canal in Venice. Running until August 25, 2023, alongside the 18th Architecture Biennale, this exhibition promises an immersive experience like no other.
Colbert’s art is renowned for its bold and vibrant style, and in “House of the Lobster“, he takes inspiration from Canaletto’s iconic paintings of Venice. The city itself becomes the backdrop for Colbert’s work, providing a contextual framework for his exploration of lobster mythology. Through a series of new Pompeii-inspired paintings, the artist resurrects the lobster’s symbolism and intertwines it with ancient mosaics and frescoes.
Central to the exhibition is the eternal conflict between the lobster, representing mortality, and the octopus, a sacred symbol. In underwater battle scenes reminiscent of ancient mythologies, these creatures are locked in a struggle, evoking both awe and tension. Colbert draws on the rich imagery of sea gods and mythical figures to infuse each painting with a sense of epic drama.
The Venice series pays homage to the city’s artistic legacy while incorporating contemporary elements. Colbert delves into the symbolism of the lobster in Dutch still-life paintings and its connection to ancient amphorae. Through his neo-pop aesthetic, he merges art history with a surreal, retro-futuristic vision of a lobster-dominated world.
“House of the Lobster – from Pompeii to Venice” is a celebration of art’s ability to bridge past and present, mythology and modernity. It invites visitors to contemplate the timeless themes of life and mortality while marveling at Colbert’s exuberant and thought-provoking artworks. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this extraordinary exhibition at Palazzo Contarini Michiel and witness the fusion of pop surrealism, classical antiquity, and contemporary art.
Website: www.patricialow.com
Location: Palazzo Contarini Michiel, Venice
Schedule: until Aug. 25, 2023
