Published: August 1, 2023
MAN OVERBOARD - Bernhard Bratsberg (Solo Exhibition)
Galleri Duer invites you to experience Bernhard Bratsberg’s first and highly anticipated solo exhibition at the Gallery. “Man Overboard” will take place in the heart of Oslo from August 18th.
"Man Overboard"
August 18th - September 17th 2023
Osterhaus gate 21, Oslo
Andrew Tate, Incels, ”pick me” boys, and everything in between. In a world of diminishing attention spans and heavily burdened cognitive capacities, it is the more extreme masculine archetypes that stand out in the sea of deadly delightful dopamine waves disguised as social media posts, likes, messages, and big red headlines. In the solo exhibition "Man Overboard," Bernhard Bratsberg explores modern masculinity through a series of new paintings.
In preparation for the "Man Overboard" exhibition, Bratsberg has devoted himself to the intricate refinement of his distinct forms and figures. Within his creations, the spectrum of abstraction is varied, ranging from the utter absence of human traits to the striking portrayal of conflicts between opposing forces. The figures on the canvas fold and twist, intertwining in controlled chaos to compose a visual symphony. They emanate a captivating essence, simultaneously sensual and grotesque, evoking both admiration and challenge in equal measure. While some of the works reflect the theme with clear symbolism and motifs presented in a satirical manner, others establish a greater space for intuition and exploration of the unknown: Digging into the transcendental realm of emotions, moods, and opinions.
In Bratsberg's Monument works, he skillfully channels a profound concept. A "Monument" traditionally refers to an object erected to honor, commemorate, or acknowledge a person or event, yet in "Man Overboard," it transcends the physical. Instead, it embodies an abstract idea. Bratsberg's intention is not to precisely define the appearance of modern masculinity in society, but rather, to create a sacred space for reflection and dialogue. Here, one can freely observe, analyze, contemplate, and discuss the intricacies of the theme.