"Gula" by Garbade - A Contemporary Dialogue Between Opulence and Decay in Madrid

Exhibition GULA at Espacio La Cabina Gallery in Madrid

4 - 30 October 2024

The Gallery is pleased to present a new exhibition by Daniel Garbade, titled "Gula," running from October 4 to 30, 2024. In this exhibition, the renowned Spanish painter of Swiss-Cuban origin explores the concept of excess and desire in its most human dimension through a series of black-and-white oil paintings on canvas. With a minimalist approach to backgrounds and detailed execution in the figures, Garbade achieves a powerful contrast that enhances the symbolic complexity of each of his works.
The exhibition opens with a series of portraits where male faces are adorned with exuberant compositions of flowers and fruits that, like hats, evoke the work of Renaissance master Giuseppe Arcimboldo. These heads, crowned with still-life compositions, sit on the boundary between the festive and the enigmatic, engaging in a dialogue between the visual richness of classical vanitas and a contemporary critique of opulence and excess. Garbade uses these elements to offer a reflection on the relationship between the natural and the artificial in a modern context.
Another key series within "Gula" is dedicated to still lifes depicting tables in disarray after opulent banquets. Leftover food, half-empty glasses, and organized chaos are the protagonists of these compositions that capture both the fleeting pleasure of the feast and the inevitable decay that follows indulgence. Through these paintings, Garbade confronts us with the transience of enjoyment and human voracity, exploring the tensions between desire and its consequences.
The exhibition also includes scenes of characters enjoying a swimming pool in a relaxed, summery atmosphere where life is celebrated in its simplest form. These images, which convey a sense of hedonism and carefree living, contrast with the introspection of other more solitary and thoughtful figures that invite reflection on the duality between superficial enjoyment and the depth of inner thought.
The choice of black and white as the sole palette adds emotional intensity to the details and highlights the tension between the explicit and the suggestive. The smooth, minimalist backgrounds direct all attention to the characters and objects, creating an environment where essential elements narrate the story. With "Gula," Daniel Garbade presents a personal and critical exploration of desire, balancing the baroque and the minimalist in a visual proposal that leaves no one indifferent.
The "Gula" exhibition is an opportunity to immerse oneself in a visual universe that challenges traditional notions of pleasure, desire, and reflection. It is a must-see for art lovers seeking a sensory and conceptual experience rich in nuances.

The Artist:
Daniel Garbade is a Spanish expressionist of Swiss and Cuban descent. He launched his career as a prop manager and production manager for commercials and movies, working alongside renowned personalities like Fred Zinnemann and Yves Boiset. In addition to his film work, Garbade is acknowledged as a skilled photographer, having contributed to prestigious publications such as El País and exhibited his work at Photo España.
Garbade set out on an artistic exploration that effortlessly traversed different movements, finding a connection with the lively realm of Pop art during the influential Movida madrileña.
Renowned for his deeply personal touch, Daniel Garbade has developed a unique artistic style defined by minimalist ink drawings. His black and white oil paintings, infused with a profound sense of expressionism, have impacted the art world.
Daniel Garbade's versatility is evident in his substantial impact on canvas and sculpture. Notably, he is the mastermind behind the sculpture at the grave of Mikhail Bakunin in Bern, showcasing his multifaceted artistic talent. His work is proudly displayed in esteemed museum collections, a testament to the enduring influence of his art. Moreover, Daniel Garbade has consistently showcased his art at renowned art fairs such as ARCO and Art Basel, cementing his place in the international art scene.
Presently based in Madrid, Daniel Garbade draws continued inspiration from his rich cultural background and varied experiences. His creations entice observers to delve into the fusion of expressionism and Pop art, providing a distinct viewpoint that surpasses artistic limitations. Daniel Garbade is more than just an artist; he is a narrator whose visual tales unfold across different platforms, welcoming audiences into a realm where ink strokes and monochromatic hues intertwine to form a tapestry of emotion and significance.

Espacio La Cabina
Cava Alta 19
La Latina
28005 Madrid
Spain

Contact:
Sara
espaciolacabina@gmail.com

Espacio La Cabina: Madrid's Vibrant New Gallery Showcasing Emerging and Established Artists

Open:
Tuesday til Friday 16:30 - 20:30
Saturdays 11:00 - 14:00 h

This release was published on openPR.