Still Life by Stefan Nikolaev
Still Life is Stefan Nikolaev’s 8th solo exhibition after Rien ne va plus (2018), Bronze, sweat and tears (2016), If things are not as you wish, wish them as they are (2013), New Works old dreams (2009), Sickkiss (2006), One for the money, two for the show (2003), Under reconstruction (2002).
Working during the time of pandemic, Nikolaev delved into his childhood memories to raise the obligatory question for every emerging and established artist: isn’t the power of the artist to (re) give life?
The exhibition follows Stefan Nikolaev’s tradition of still painting (Adding a day to a day, 2022; Early
still-life in nine colours, 2022). The works in the exhibition borrow classical materials (such as copper,
iron and marble) along with modern coloured neon.
The show also has an autobiographical character – the works are inseparable from the artist’s native country – Bulgaria. These themes can be seen in the landscapes – which are part of the artist’s childhood – as well as the craftsmen – who were part of his daily life (see the film Half Life, 2021, produced by AM
Art Films). An interesting example is the work Be yourself no matter what they say, 2022 – composed of three seagulls and a sun in wrought iron, a material found on seaside railings everywhere in Bulgaria.
The exhibition was opened on May 21st in Michel Rein, Paris and available to be seen for two months – until July 21st.