Paul Maheke

The various works presented in this exhibition relate to two of the most ‘implicitly’ oppressive structures we have, that is, language and systems of representation.

The selection of works on copper recover the unique properties of this material, which equally allows the formation of an image (at an artistic-cultural level), the ability to conduct electricity and heat (at a technological-infrastructural level), and efficacy in alternative medicine (at the therapeutic-health level). In this way, the artist intrinsically links the physical, spiritual and social dimensions of living in a single movement.

Much of the meanings of the works are rooted in Maheke’s interest in the invisible yet very concrete forces that affect our bodies as well as our identities, and how we experience ourselves. Specifically, these forces include the political and social understanding of our history, the most mystical and spiritual one, as well as the sound and physical forces (for example, gravity) that surround us. The series of Maheke’s works is, in essence, a way of reaching out to establish a form of contact.

Paul Maheke (Brive-la-Gaillarde, France, 1985). He lives and works in London. His solo exhibitions include: Ludlow 38, New York (2019); Chisenhale, London (2018); South London Gallery (2016). His group shows include: Musée d’art contemporain de la Haute-Vienne, Rochechouart, France (2020); Museum Ludwig, Cologne (2019); Somerset House, London (2019); Lafayette Anticipations, Paris (2018); Tate Modern, London (2017); Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool (2017); Centro de Arte Dos de Mayo, Madrid (2017). He took part in Biennale Performa 19, New York, the 58th Venice Biennale, and Manifesta 12, Palermo.