What were made of and Grasp, 2024

Michaela Haider  

This artwork comprises a striking diptych that explores the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature. On the left, a faceless figure blurs into lush green, as if emerging from a canvas of swirling brushstrokes. The body is intertwined with earthy textures and foliage, suggesting a seamless integration with the natural world. The right panel intensifies this connection, depicting hands cupping a vibrant explosion of leaves and buds. The juxtaposition of human flesh with thriving greenery emphasizes growth and renewal. The color palette, dominated by greens and browns, evokes a sense of organic vitality and grounding. This composition challenges viewers to reflect on their own connection to nature, blending surrealism with a commentary on environmental unity. The dynamic brushwork and deliberate obscurity create a sense of mystery, inviting contemplation and engagement with its themes.

Hues of colour, tones of life. Each artwork of the series shows a story, a tone, an element of existence in this world. There are countless shades to it. The images are just a selection of some. An idea being conveyed. Starting with photographic base elements, such as the figure or the landscape, Haider transforms the scenery into a surreal world through heavy post-production. She uses photographs, that in their essence capture something real, to merge these aspects of reality, slowly creating something unreal and imagined, yet familiar in its story - a dreamscape, drawing from the essence underneath the surface. In her work the unspoken finds itself translated into images. 

From FARBTÖNE Series. Hahnemühle Photo Rag (HPR) 300g * Print comes with a 2 cm white border Dimension: Overall size: 44 x 88 in. Individual Size: 44 x 44 in. Edition of 2/5 + 1AP Other sizes: 75 x 150 in. Edition of 3 +1AP