‘A mirror of a thousand images’ explores our contemporary world not through a two-dimensional perception, where space is fixed, but rather a scenario formed by reflections and superpositions, where non-linear time is embodied as a third dimension. Almost like in a mirror, figures, shadows, light and movement are compressed and unfolded, trying to encapsulate the complex qualities of ever emerging realities and identities.
Images from the more immediate environment of the artist's life, together with common images and selfies from social media are mixed to acquire latent depths. The result, a series of enigmatic pictures materialise themselves by densifying the flatness of immediacy. In this new dimension, images include both realities on the front and the back of the mirror. The reflection of queer identities and sexualities, together with human senses and instincts collide in these paintings. We can just wander around in this confusing game of seduction, where we look and are being looked at the same time, continually questioning our passing nature.
Xabier’s work is strongly influenced by the context where it has been produced and it aims to have a direct dialogue with contemporary culture and society. The architecture of cities and the queer scene are the backgrounds of his work. Francis Bacon, Henry Moore, Picasso, or Jorge Oteiza are, together with many other artists, architects, and writers, strong references for his practice. The experimentation with light and space in a live environment is a common drive in all the disciplines he works on.
The Artist
Xabier Instagram is a Basque Artist and Architect living in London. He studied Architecture and Urbanism back in Spain and he completed his artistic training in London where he attended several courses in Experimental Media and Advanced Painting at Putney Art School and The Art Academy. He is an active member of the Clapham Junction Studios since 2016, where he has produced most of his recent work.
Xabier has exhibited in numerous collective art exhibitions in the UK, Spain and Portugal.