Shadowland at Ethan Cohen Gallery in Beacon, New York is a compilation of dual-sided works by multi-media artist Margaret Innerhofer. She is an Italian-born, US-based artist and musician, with studios in New York City and the KuBe Art Center in Beacon. Shadowland’s reflective themes include the lure of shadows and negative space based on the artist’s studies of architecture; a passion for environmentalism which is displayed in her photographs of abandoned cars and buildings being reclaimed by nature; and a deep study into the subconscious which wholly inspires her art. This fascinating solo exhibition runs through October 1.
Gwen Donovan: Was the theme of Shadowland an idea you had suddenly, or something you’d been thinking about for a while?
Margaret Innerhofer: The emergence of the theme for Shadowland was a gradual evolution that unfolded over the years as I immersed myself in the realm of photography as my chosen artistic medium. Starting with black and white and color photos, I began juxtaposing them, layering black and white images beneath their color counterparts. However, as time progressed, I found myself drawn to the idea of juxtaposing these two photographic expressions within a single framework. This experimental approach naturally gave rise to the concept of Shadowland, where the convergence of these photographic dimensions creates a captivating visual narrative.
“In Sandmen, the juxtaposition of beachgoers above and their submerged reflections below serves as a visual representation of the duality of human existence, a concept rooted in Jungian philosophy. Drawing inspiration from Carl Jung’s Shadow persona concept and the realm of Quantum Physics, I delve into the profound influence these forces exert on human behavior.”
GD: How do the three different series in this show—Sandmen, Heavy Metal, and Deconstr-Activist—relate to each other?
MI: The three series unite under a single conceptual and visual umbrella, each contributing a unique facet to a cohesive narrative. Together, these series weave a cohesive visual tapestry that encourages reflection on aspects of consciousness, the environment, and the intricate structures we construct and abandon, to accommodate our fragmented psyche.
GD: How does Shadowland invite the viewer into an alternate psychological and temporal dimension?
MI: In this exhibition, I delve into the intricate realms of the subconscious, guided by profound philosophical and scientific readings. Carl Jung’s exploration of collective consciousness has deeply fascinated me, leading me to explore how our subconscious influences our waking decisions and movements. Through my artwork, I seek to unravel the enigma of our subconscious control, drawing inspiration from scientific research, which reveals that a significant 80% of human behavior is governed by our subconscious, heavily influenced by experiences from our formative years, particularly ages 0 to 10. This revelation sheds light on why logical arguments may often be overshadowed by emotional reactions rooted in the gut.
“The genesis of the Heavy series finds its roots in my upbringing amidst the unspoiled beauty of the Italian Alps. It channels my innate connection to environmental activism, a passion ignited by the pristine landscapes that nurtured my formative years.”
GD: The works in Shadowland can be hung either horizontally or vertically, was that the way you imagined them from the outset?
MI: No, it wasn’t the initial plan. The idea developed gradually because viewers frequently inquired if the images could be reversed. As I present my art to viewers, I now give them the unique opportunity to evoke different visual and emotional responses by allowing them to choose how to hang each piece. They can opt for the color side up, revealing a figurative and realistic view of the artwork. Alternatively, they can explore the more conceptual, surreal, abstract and volumetric perspective of the black-and-white ‘Shadow image’ when it faces upward. This art goes beyond mere aesthetics; it prompts introspection and contemplation, creating a multi-layered experience that challenges us to consider the complexities of human perception.
“Deconstr-Activist merges architectural schooling and practice with environmental advocacy, exploring the interplay between human creation and natural habitat.”
GD: What inspires you in everyday life?
MI: My identity as an artist thrives within a dynamic interplay of influences, profoundly shaping my creations. The impetus of political and environmental concerns, driven by a deep understanding of the human and social condition, drives me to capture thought-provoking moments that spark contemplation. Additionally, the emotional resonance of nature, meditation and my music serve as a backdrop, harmonizing with my visual narratives.
Photography courtesy of Margaret Innerhofer.
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