Jack Hanley Gallery East Hampton is excited to present a solo exhibition with new works by Emma Kohlmann. In this exhibition, Kohlmann will show new paintings with individually etched and stained frames along with a small selection of monotypes. Like an enchanted forest, both ancient and futuristic, Kohlmann’s works inhere a symbolism drawn from flora, fauna and mythological creatures.
Human-like plants, leaves, fabulous figures and butterflies inhabit a world that channels Kohlmann’s unfiltered stream of consciousness. Poetic and humorous, tender and bold, the characters seem to live in a universe that is formed right in between the space of Kohlmann’s mind and hand - an immediacy and intimacy that is palpable throughout her work.
The absence of traditional compositions or naturalistic proportions in the work takes away any sense of hierarchical order. Instead, plants, animals and humans morph into interchangable entities and co-exist peacefully. This sentiment of equality is not only noticeable within the imagery but in the variety of techniques. Each medium, each piece, is treated with equal care and becomes part of an all-embracing Gesamtkunstwerk.
Emma Kohlmann (b. 1989 in the Bronx, NY) lives and works in Florence, MA. She received her B.A. from Hampshire College, Amherst, MA. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally including solo exhibitions at Jack Hanley Gallery, The University of Texas at Austin,TX, Nationale, Portland, OR, and Kit Gallery, Tokyo. Selected group exhibitions include the Portland Museum of Art, Portland, OR, MOCA Tucson, AZ, and Stems, Brussels. Kohlmann publishes her own artist’s books, zines and made various record covers for music labels.