Close, not closer

"Close, Not Closer" is an evocative exhibition by emerging Polish artist Anna Myszkowiak. Myszkowiak's work, celebrated for its emotional depth and meticulous craftsmanship, delve during this exhibition into the nuanced boundaries that define human connections and the inherited traumas passed down through generations. This exhibition is a product of Myszkowiak's residency at LeCharbonnage in Genk, where she immersed herself in exploring the intersections of personal and collective histories. Through a series of poetic sculptures crafted from everyday materials such as wood, baking paper, found objects, raw flax and sewing thread, Myszkowiak explores the complex tapestry of relationships within families. These humble materials, transformed through her artistry, symbolize the fragility and resilience of human bonds. Her sculptures capture moments of closeness that are intimate yet restrained, evoking a profound sense of contemplation and introspection. Central to this exhibition is the exploration of injuries—those inflicted by the outside world and, more poignantly, those that originate from within. Myszkowiak confronts the internal wounds carried by individuals, often invisible yet deeply impactful, as they navigate their inherited traumas and personal histories. These internal scars, woven into the fabric of family dynamics, highlight the profound interplay between inner and outer worlds. As you journey through this exhibition, prepare to engage with the subtle complexities of relationships, the spaces we inhabit both physically and emotionally, and the silent weights carried from one generation to the next. "Close, Not Closer" is not just an exhibition; it's an experience that resonates deeply with our shared human condition, inviting reflection on the invisible threads that bind us together and the distances that sometimes keep us apart.

Marianne De Lise, LeCharbonnage