Shimako: Angry, But Calmer Than Before – An Exhibition Review

Breaking News: Artist Confronts and Discards Inner “Ghosts” in Evocative Exhibition

An artist is making waves with a powerful exhibition that tackles the universal struggle of confronting and discarding life’s burdensome “ghosts.” Across two floors, the artist’s compelling works invite viewers to reflect on personal anxieties and the catharsis of letting go.

On the basement level, a captivating video installation showcases the artist, adorned in a flesh-toned costume and a mask, engaging in a symbolic ritual. The performance art piece depicts the artist playing music and systematically discarding perceived “ghosts” into a trash receptacle.Titled “Fearless,” this work is a profound exploration of confronting fear and actively choosing to abandon it.

The exhibition also features striking illustrations, including “Scratch My Back” and “Angry, but calmer than before.” The latter, in particular, resonates with a message of progress and resilience, suggesting that enhancement is a journey with incremental victories.

“This work that abandons ghosts, both the video and the illustrations, truly resonated with me,” shared an attendee. “The simplicity of the video’s actions held my attention for an extended period, highlighting the profound impact of symbolic gestures.”

beyond personal fears, the exhibition touches upon the overwhelming accumulation of unpleasant experiences that can lead to exhaustion. The artist’s approach of systematically discarding these burdens,rather than letting them amass,offers a potent metaphor for emotional well-being. leaving the gallery, the sentiment was clear: the act of letting go, even symbolically, offers a path to a lighter existence. This exhibition serves as a timely reminder that actively addressing and releasing our inner “ghosts” can substantially ease our mental and emotional load.

How does the exhibition reflect a change in Shimako‘s artistic style compared to their previous work?

The evolution of rage: A Shift in Shimako’s Artistic Voice

Shimako’s latest exhibition, currently showing at the Gallery Neue Vision in Berlin, marks a compelling evolution in the artist’s exploration of anger, frustration, and societal pressures. While previous works were characterized by explosive color palettes and chaotic compositions – instantly recognizable hallmarks of Shimako’s style – this collection reveals a newfound restraint,a simmering intensity that feels more considered,and ultimately,more powerful. This isn’t a disappearance of the rage,but a channeling of it. The exhibition, running until August 15th, 2025, is drawing significant attention from art critics and collectors alike, solidifying Shimako’s position as a leading voice in contemporary art. Key themes include contemporary painting, emotional expressionism, and social commentary.

Deconstructing the Fury: Key Pieces and Techniques

The shift in Shimako’s approach is immediately apparent. Gone are the overwhelming swathes of crimson and black. Instead, a muted palette dominates – greys, blues, and ochres – punctuated by carefully placed bursts of color. This isn’t to say the work is subdued; quite the opposite. The tension is palpable, built through layering, texture, and a masterful control of negative space.

Here are some standout pieces:

“Static Bloom”: A large-scale canvas dominated by swirling greys, with a single, vibrant poppy rendered in almost photorealistic detail.This piece encapsulates the exhibition’s central theme: beauty emerging from chaos.

“Fractured Reflections”: A series of smaller works utilizing shattered glass and resin, reflecting distorted images of urban landscapes. This explores themes of alienation and the fragmented nature of modern life.

“The Weight of Silence”: Perhaps the most striking piece,featuring a single,heavily textured figure seemingly collapsing under an invisible burden. The use of impasto is particularly effective, conveying a sense of physical and emotional weight.

Shimako’s technique remains rooted in abstract expressionism, but with a clear move towards figurative art elements. The artist continues to employ mixed media, incorporating found objects and unconventional materials into her work. This adds another layer of complexity and invites viewers to engage with the pieces on a tactile level. The influence of artists like Anselm Kiefer and Louise Bourgeois is subtly present,but Shimako’s voice remains distinctly her own.

Anger as a Process: Understanding the Artist’s Intent

Shimako has openly discussed her intention to move beyond simply expressing anger to understanding it. In a recent interview with ArtForum International, she stated, “I realized that simply screaming onto the canvas wasn’t enough. I needed to dissect the anger, to understand its roots, and to find a way to represent it that was both honest and nuanced.”

This shift is reflected in the exhibition’s structure. The works are arranged thematically, moving from pieces that depict raw, unfiltered emotion to those that explore the aftermath of anger – the exhaustion, the regret, the tentative hope for healing. this narrative arc provides a powerful and emotionally resonant experience for the viewer. The exhibition also touches upon the societal factors contributing to widespread anger and frustration, including political unrest, economic inequality, and environmental concerns.

The Impact of Restraint: A New Level of Emotional Depth

The intentional restraint in Shimako’s new work isn’t a weakening of her artistic voice; it’s an amplification. by choosing to suggest rather than shout, she forces the viewer to actively participate in the emotional experience.The muted colors and subtle textures create a sense of intimacy, drawing the viewer closer and inviting them to confront their own feelings of anger and frustration.

This approach also allows for a greater level of ambiguity. The works are open to interpretation, inviting multiple readings and fostering a deeper connection between the art and the audience. This is a significant departure from Shimako’s earlier work, which often felt more direct and confrontational.

Benefits of Experiencing Shimako’s Work

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, engaging with Shimako’s art offers several benefits:

Emotional Catharsis: The exhibition provides a safe space to explore and process tough emotions.

Increased Self-Awareness: the work encourages viewers to reflect on their own experiences of anger and frustration.

Stimulation of Critical Thinking: The social and political themes explored in the exhibition prompt viewers to question the world around them.

Appreciation for Contemporary Art: The exhibition showcases the power of art to address complex issues and challenge conventional perspectives.

Practical Tips for Viewing the Exhibition

Allow Ample Time: Don’t rush through the exhibition. Take your time to fully absorb each piece and allow yourself to connect with the emotions it evokes.

Read the Artist’s Statement: Understanding Shimako’s intentions can enhance your appreciation of the work.

Engage with the Gallery Staff: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and discuss your interpretations with the gallery staff.

* Consider a Second Visit: Returning to the exhibition after a few days can reveal new