Thematic Preface:
Metempsychosis: The Passion of Pneumatics
In the realm of art, Serbian artist Milena Petrovic has carved a distinctive niche for herself through her unique blend of ancient traditions and contemporary techniques. With her first institutional solo exhibition based in New York, Petrovic’s Metempsychosis: The Passion of Pneumatics is set to challenge conventional notions of art while exploring the complexities of identity and transformation.
The title, “Metempsychosis: The Passion of Pneumatics,” alludes to two significant elements of Petrovic’s artistic journey. Metempsychosis, derived from the Greek term ‘metempsychosis’ meaning “transmigration of the soul,” encapsulates the core theme of this exhibition – the exploration of metamorphosis and the evolution of self. Petrovic delves into the profound notion of how one’s identity can be transformed and reconstructed throughout various stages of life.
Interwoven with the theme of metamorphosis, Petrovic addresses the concept of pneumatic energy. Originating from ancient philosophical studies, pneumatic energy refers to the invisible forces that drive existence. Petrovic’s work investigates the intangible essence of existence, symbolizing the depth of humanity through her sculptures, drawings, and videos.
Spanning two levels and five rooms, Petrovic’s creative expression is showcased through a diverse range of mediums. Her sculptures, meticulously crafted with great attention to detail, breathe life into inanimate objects, bringing them to life in a seemingly fantastical manner. The accompanying drawings, with their ethereal lines and intricate patterns, invite viewers into Petrovic’s imaginative world.
As we step into Petrovic’s exhibition at this particular moment in history, it is essential to recognize the profound impact of her work against the backdrop of our contemporary world. Petrovic’s ability to bridge the ancient past with the present echoes today’s complex social fabric, where the struggle for self-identity and transformation remains a constant battle.
Through her art, Petrovic challenges us to question our own metamorphoses, our own journeys of self-discovery and understanding. She urges us to consider the invisible energy that drives us forward, encouraging exploration and introspection.
Amidst the countless distractions and noise of the modern world, stepping into Petrovic’s exhibition serves as a reminder of the beauty and power of art to provoke thought, ignite the imagination, and inspire profound connections with the human experience.
In the coming pages, we invite you to immerse yourself in Petrovic’s Metempsychosis: The Passion of Pneumatics, inviting you on a transformative journey that bridges the ancient and the contemporary, the striving soul and the intangible forces of existence.
