In his most extensive exhibition in London for nearly a decade, celebrated artist Adrian Ghenie takes us on a captivating journey through the intricate labyrinth of contemporary society. “The Fear of NOW” at Thaddaeus Ropac is a powerful exploration of the impact of the Digital Era on the human condition and its profound physiological effects on the body. Ghenie, renowned for his compelling oil paintings and charcoal drawings, presents a body of work that reflects a key shift in his themes and practice.
Adrian Ghenie, “The Fear of NOW”, Exhibition view. Thaddaeus Ropac gallery, London, 2022
The exhibition is a profound reflection on the transformation of our world, where bodies are increasingly oriented around mobile phones and laptops. Ghenie astutely identifies a seismic shift in body language, one that foregrounds the intrusive influence of the digital world. His figurative works capture torsos bowed over screens, hands clutching at portable devices, and a new bodily relationship with technology that is both evocative and unnerving.
Adrian Ghenie, “The Fear of NOW”, Exhibition view. Thaddaeus Ropac gallery, London, 2022
At the heart of the exhibition are a series of paintings portraying the American icon Marilyn Monroe, examining the multifaceted personas of public figures that constitute what Ghenie terms the ‘soup of fame.’ These artworks challenge the superficiality of fame, as Ghenie disrupts the smooth surfaces of Andy Warhol’s iconic screenprints based on Marilyn’s 1953 film, “Niagara.” He rearranges her facial features in a grotesque fashion, delving into the core of fame with a distinct European sensibility.
Ghenie’s Marilyn series serves as a vehicle for his deeply personal investigation of identity in the context of the digitally saturated ‘NOW.’ The portraits of the Hollywood star become mirrors reflecting the three interconnected personas he ascribes to public figures: the real artist, the artist working in the studio, and the myth of the artist as depicted in popular media.
Adrian Ghenie, “The Fear of NOW”, Exhibition view. Thaddaeus Ropac gallery, London, 2022
The exhibition’s title, “The Fear of NOW,” is indicative of Ghenie’s apprehension about the role of online culture in today’s social interactions. As an artist who abstains from social media, he places himself ‘out of the social loop, contributing to a unique perspective on the impact of digitalization on our lives. In the painting “Figure with remote control,” Ghenie emphasizes the significance of self-representation in the digital age as the human body connects with technology, reflecting his personal involvement in this ever-evolving landscape.
Adrian Ghenie, “The Fear of NOW”, Exhibition view. Thaddaeus Ropac gallery, London, 2022
Ghenie’s exploration of the Digital Age extends to his experimentation with new mediums and techniques, revealing his evolving artistic repertoire. The exhibition showcases a shift towards a more linear approach to painting, building on developments in his drawing practice. Charcoal and oil paint combine to create a ‘drawing based on mistakes, allowing the artist to erase and rework his marks in a fascinating and innovative process.
Adrian Ghenie, “The Fear of NOW”, Exhibition view. Thaddaeus Ropac gallery, London, 2022
Adrian Ghenie, one of the most celebrated painters of his generation, masterfully bridges the personal, the art historical, and the political in his dynamic body of work. His pieces embody not just specific subject matter but the act of painting itself. With a penchant for depicting historical personalities and a keen eye for transforming personal memories, art historical references, and internet imagery into striking artwork, Ghenie’s oeuvre is a testament to his artistic mastery.
Adrian Ghenie, “The Fear of NOW”, Exhibition view. Thaddaeus Ropac gallery, London, 2022
“The Fear of NOW” marks an exciting chapter in Ghenie’s artistic journey. It’s a reflection of the world we live in, where the digital and the corporeal are entwined in complex and thought-provoking ways. The exhibition is a testament to Ghenie’s ability to capture the essence of contemporary society in a compelling and evocative manner, and it offers viewers a unique opportunity to ponder the impact of technology on our lives, the personas we construct, and the ever-shifting dynamics of fame in the digital age.
