written by art historian & curator Mihaela Manolache
Secrets, like threads woven into the very fabric of visual art, add layers of complexity and intrigue to the viewing experience. Visual arts, with their power to communicate beyond the spoken word is a forever-open concept that can gain new perspectives with time and reveal secrets undisclosed before. The artist, in wielding the brush or experimenting with unconventional techniques, becomes both a confessor and a guardian of hidden narratives. The very act of creation becomes a confession, an intimate dialogue between the artist and the medium that births the artwork. In this expansion, we broaden our understanding to encompass the evolving nature of artistic expression and the enduring impact it has on the observer.
The enigmatic allure of two iconic masterpieces — Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci and the abstract expressionist paintings of Jackson Pollock, has fascinated generations of artists and scholars. Although separated by centuries and stylistic approaches, these artworks share the common theme of concealing profound narratives within their canvas, inviting viewers to reflect, discover and enjoy.
