Luminous Gatti Eyja | Kristjana S Williams

Luminous Gatti Eyja, a beautiful limited edition print on paper by artist Kristjana S Williams. Part of the Venice Collection.

The story behind the artwork:

Capturing a post-anthrocene world of the imagination, the artwork in the Venice Collection imbues a Dali-esque contemplation of a life where the power of nature is enabled to take hold; colour is heightened, oxygen flows, and the animal kingdom reclaims habitats lost and gains territories discovered, those left bare by the absence of humanity. The impact the lockdowns have had on our environment has been remarkable. Absorb yourself in the paradox of a demi-Utopia, where clear, calm waters dissolve the social and environmental conundrums of society.

Kristjana's love affair with Venice began with a visit in 2010, where the incredible architecture and light found at every corner was only enhanced by the 20th Century art housed at the Peggy Guggenheim. It was 10 years later that Kristjana stumbled upon some 19th Century Venetian stereoscopic prints by photographic pioneer, Carlo Ponti.

The crystalline clear water of the continental lagoon breathes life into the conquering animals that now live, harmonious and free, amidst the iconic rooftops of ancient Venice. Edging towards the horizon, far reaching islands repel the tidal waters of the adriatic and protect this Isola, this island home of the creatures within it. A confusion of cats, from pet kitten to cheetah, display none of their habitual fear of the water, and play here with former adversaries, canine and mouse. This paradoxical partnership a natural phenomenon of this brave new world.