“Potions”- an exhibition opening by Anita DeSoto
Earlier this month, I embarked on a beautiful adventure through the rural southern landscapes to Gore, The Eastern Southland Gallery to be exact, for the opening night of Anita De Soto’s exhibition, “Potions”.
I met Anita around 5 years ago, somewhere in Blueskin Bay. Such a kind, gentle spirit I was immediately drawn to her energy and have loved the connections we have since had during my days in the bay.
With a Master of Fine Arts, Anita has been exhibiting her work in galleries nationwide for the past 20years, and has been lecturing in drawing and painting at the Dunedin School of Art, Otago Polytechnic since 2004.
“My work is a blend of postmodern consciousness and the tropes represented by European masters. Through my art, I aim to flip the narrative of women being portrayed as accessories, victims or pawns in a patriarchal society.”
Having only attended a handful of exhibition openings, and never having seen Anita’s work up close, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I was met with a warmth and serenity from the space, where the art hung boldly on the wall making itself seen and encouraging the viewer to stop and listen to the messages contained within. These works pay homage to the Baroque era while highlighting the ongoing struggle for women’s rights. “In today’s world, where these rights are at risk, it’s essential to revisit history and acknowledge the persecution women endured during witch hunts.”
I loved hearing not only Anita speak on her work, but the conversations and questions from the members of the audience as well. Family, friends, artists, buyers, locals, not so locals. People who have been attending such exhibitions for years, and some for whom this was their first time. It didn’t matter from which walk of life we all sprung, we were all sharing in the same discussion.
“My artwork sparks a postmodern discourse, inviting viewers to question the portrayals of gender by European artists of the past. This serves as a platform to discuss women’s historical resilience, emphasizing their enduring strength and the urgent need to safeguard and advance women’s rights in a world where they face renewed threats. It acts as both a reminder of our history and a call to action for a more equitable future.”
This exhibition runs until 12th May 2024 and is absolutely worth the visit to sunny Eastern Southland.
To learn more about the simply wonderful Anita DeSoto head over to her website.
