COMMUNE

10 May – 1 June 2014

DAVID RALPH

Ralph recently commented on how Leipzig – in the east of Germany, not far from Berlin – is now home to an increasing number of artists from around the world, many of whom paint there due to its relative affordability and the generous, comfortable situation it provides. Ralph’s latest works, made during his residency are primarily concerned with the virtually derelict spaces many of Leipzig’s artists have colonised as property elsewhere in the western world has become so out of reach. The most noticeable aspect of this architectural environment is how old, derelict and redundant spaces can become a haven to artists, especially painters, whose practices often demand space.

This exhibition seeks to capture in part the spirit, environment and habitat of Leipzig’s post war, socialist and industrial past, as it is transformed and morphed into something new and very different. My paintings explore a place where artists – painters can thrive, create new work and a new community from the ruins of the past. This exhibition is about the places that artists colonise and transform.


~ David Ralph, Leipzig, March 2014