Fire & Earth: Guillem Nadal in Berlin

Some of the narrow parallel lines that are winding across the canvasses remind me of topographic maps. Others resemble rice fields or the lines that waves draw on the sandy bottom of the sea. The artwork by Guillem Nadal is mostly abstract. But his drawings and installations all tell about the energy of nature and their influence on man. The Mallorcan artist is deeply inspired by Mediterranean mythology. His topic though is highly contemporary: the vulnerability of earth and mankind. For the first time in Berlin a selection of his works is currently being exhibited at Galerie Florian Schönfelder.

The four elements have always been at the heart of Nadal’s art. And fire and earth inspire him the most. Hence the title of his Berlin exhibition. Fire as a symbol of destruction as well as passion and rebirth, Earth representing the creation of mankind, growth and persistence. Nadal works with and from nature with materials like canvas, paper, wood, bronze and iron. I was most fascinated by a bronze statue called “Illa”. A tiny torso the legs of which seem to turn into endless long roots or branches.

My first encounter with Guillem Nadal was at Galeria Pelaires during an Art Palma Brunch. There was a large picture leaning against a rear wall of the exhibition room. The plain paperwork left a lasting impression on me. Fragile and dynamic, yet reassuring and calm. Like waves. As it turned out it was a remaining piece of the preceding exhibition. Ever since I have seen Nadal’s works at places like Fundació Miró or Casal Solleric. And now in Berlin, the vibes connecting the two cities I call home.