Joseph Klibansky (b. 1984 in Cape Town) is a Dutch artist based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. His work examines the relationship between a thing and its essence, between what we see and what an image implies. The sense of precarious equilibrium that can be found in his recent paintings and in his sculptures reveals just how sadly dystopian an image can be that, at first glance, appears happily utopian. It thus reveals how utopia and dystopia can coexist within the same image.
Klibansky’s practice often allows technology and traditional artistic techniques to coexist. By utilising the limitless potential of digitally enhanced art, Klibansky is able to create both complex sculptural compositions as well as render his monumental paintings by digitally layering hundreds of images. The Dutch artist is best known for his highly reflective sculptures, depicting animals and distinctive characters as shining monuments.
Klibansky’s series of bronze sculptures are playful figures that aim to represent the juxtaposition between symbol and association. In ‘Reflections of Truth II’, Pinocchio and his long nose stand weighted down by an impossibly-large diamond carried on his shoulders. Made of shiny, polished bronze, the deceitful puppet can be found almost charming. ‘Big Bang’, a gigantic black gorilla head clad with a golden party hat and horn, is shown in sharp contrast with the animal’s sullen gaze. Made of glossed and polished bronze, this sculpture was realized with the aid of a 3D printer.
Klibansky has exhibited at prestigious locations around the world including: Palazzo Cavalli-Franchetti (Venice), National Museum de Fundatie of Zwolle (Netherlands), K11 Kunsthalle Guangzhou (China), and The BVDS Gallery (Venice) in conjunction with the 57th Venice Art Biennale.
