The exhibition debuts a new group of paintings on canvas, photographs and drawings on paper, in which the physical and emotional need for intimacy is explored through the symbol of the hug. The embrace is examined as a vehicle with which we accept and understand each other, but also as a means of understanding ourselves.
The conceptual core of "HUG EACH OTHER AGAIN" is based on the doctrine of French philosopher Maurice Merlau-Ponty which suggests that the body should be regarded not as a mere biological or physical unit, but as the body which structures one's situation and experience within the world.
Matete Martini explores anatomy and skin; the relationship between the brain, the touch and emotion and reflects upon the primitive, profound gesture of the embrace through confident brushstrokes, fast lines, spray on canvas and deeply emotional photographic works. In the artist's words, "The primal yearning for connection manifests most profoundly in the embrace - an enduring symbol of tranquillity and belonging that transcends the veneer of societal constructs and shatters any illusion that mere gestures or words may conjure."
"HUG EACH OTHER AGAIN" also addresses the fragile notion of "home" which involves a complex set of tensions related to the possibility of making oneself feel safe and protected in contemporary society. The fact that the exhibition takes place in Nicosia, the only divided European capital, has particular significance; it tackles the symbolic lack of the embrace which creates a barrier that separates self and other, challenging viewers to reflect upon the need for acceptance and togetherness between people living within the same territory.
Riana Raouna explains, "We are delighted to be showing the solo exhibition of Matete Martini for the first time in Cyprus. This exhibition fulfils the gallery's primary aim of introducing international emerging artists to the local audience and showcasing what is happening today in contemporary art. We are looking forward to welcoming art lovers from all over Cyprus."
Matete Martini (born in 1994 in Pordenone-Italy) holds a degree in Interior Design from IED in Rome and an MA in Visual Culture from the IUAV in Venice. She is the founder of the international workshop program "Future Young Talent", which aims to equip young artists with the necessary insights to critically comprehend design, art, and architecture and foster a holistic approach towards creativity.
Matete Martini is currently focused on developing projects across various artistic disciplines, which include painting, performance, sculpture, glass design, cinema, and education. Her work has been shown internationally with recent exhibitions and projects including: Fino ad ora come allora, Baldinini, Milan (2024); Nonostante Marras, Milan (2023); Matete Martini: Il Lavavetri, Venice Glass Week (2023); Incurata, solo show, Venice Glass Week (2022); In Presence, Every Woman Biennial, London (2021); In Presence, Tube Culture Hall, Milan (2021); Razza Di Ambrosia, Aretè Showroom, Milan (2020); Worksbyfriends Pop-up International Women's Day, Ludlow House, New York (2019); Lacuna, Sotto Sale Projects, London (2019); VeniceLands Art Price, Arsenale Roncade, Venice (2019).