Popland turns 5 – And you're invited!
Opening Saturday June 7 - 17:00 to 20:00
Several artists will be present at the opening, don’t miss your chance to meet Alexandra Lukaschewitz, Chuck Sperry, Hazel Ang, Malojo, Peter ter Mors, and curator Ciou.
French pop surrealist Ciou curates Popland for the fifth time for KochxBos Gallery.
Popland brings together the work of 19 leading and emerging international artists from the vibrant world of Pop Surrealism, a movement that took root in the late 20th century, blending the fantastical with the everyday, the playful with the profound.
The works often contain fantastical and playful narratives, interwoven with elements of satire and social, cultural, and consumerist critique. Pop Surrealist art frequently draws from various subcultures and is known for its high level of technical skill and detail.
Like its collectors and fans, the artists in this movement come from all over the world. Just like the previous four editions, Popland V was curated by French artist Ciou. Alongside her own work, the exhibition features artists from Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, Spain, the United States, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Ciou's prominence within the scene helped make this international selection possible, says Koch at the gallery: “We're able to show Creature Creature’s work (Australia) thanks to Ciou’s recommendation. Without her, it’s unlikely they would have sent their work to the Netherlands.” Because Popland taps into the insider network of well-established artist Ciou, visitors get access to exclusive works and a direct look into current developments within the movement.
Ciou didn’t impose a specific theme on the artists; they were free to create whatever they wanted. Still, the works form a cohesive whole, united by shared influences. Ciou points to anime, pop culture, and folk art as key inspirations.
“It’s fascinating to see how artists from Asia interpret American influences, and how European artists approach Japanese art. It’s a continuous cycle of inspiration - a perfect circle.” – Ciou
Thematically, some of the works are more political and socially engaged than one might expect from a genre inspired by pop culture and fantasy. This aligns well with the regular programming at KochxBos Gallery, where pop culture and humor are often paired with political and emancipatory messages.
Welcome!
Ciou, Hans Bos and Esther Koch
Featuring artists
Alexandra Lukaschewitz
Aya Kakeda
Caia Koopman
Ciou
Chris Buzelli
Chuck Sperry
Creature Creature
Hazel Ang
Malojo
Mizna Wada
Nicomi Nix Turner
Oki Chu
Peter ter Mors
Robert Steven Connett
Roberto Rodriguez Redondo
Sean Mahan
Sonya Fu
Johnny Akihito Noda
Yu Maeda