Joana Vasconcelos' exaggerated world...

4:56 p.m.

Carmen, by Joana Vasconcelos (2001)

Materials: plastic earrings, iron

An extraordinary combination for an artist of excess: Joana Vasconcelos (Paris, 1971) at the Liria Palace, a building that was the residence of the Duchess of Alba and has now been temporarily converted into an exhibition hall.

We begin the tour in the library on the ground floor of the palace, where the monumental Carmen was installed, a chandelier with hundreds of hanging plastic earrings, accompanied by Maria Callas's performance of L'Amour Est un Oiseau Rebelle (Love is a rebel bird), the aria from the first act of Georges Bizet's 1875 opera "Carmen".

Leaving the library, we access the main staircase, guarded by Vigoroso and Poderoso, two lions covered in hand-crocheted fabric, which lead us to the captivating Valkyrie Thyra, in which the fabric is the true star. This is an exuberant, handcrafted textile creation that the artist imbues with tactile and sensorial qualities. Bulbous, polychrome forms are scattered throughout the Baroque space surrounding the main staircase. While textile creation and handicrafts were considered outside the realm of art for centuries, today Vasconcelos restores the aura and mystery that was once denied them.

Vigoroso and Poderoso, by Joana Vasconcelos (2006-2024)

Materials: cement lions and bases, handmade crochet fabric in cotton.

Valkyrie Thyra, by Joana Vasconcelos (2023)

Materials: handmade crochet fabric in cotton, fabrics, ornaments, LED, inflatable polyester.

Thus, drawing on the strong visual appeal of her works, Vasconcelos addresses the theme of women and the tasks associated with femininity. She does so in a tone that's both ironic and humorous, allowing her to connect more effectively with the viewer and prompt them to reflect on what's on display. We can't fail to mention the allusions to various moments in art history, such as Duchamp.s readymades and Warhol's Pop Art.

Bond Girl (2014) & Lilaea (2017), by Joana Vasconcellos

Materials: cement sculptures, acrylic paint, handmade crochet fabric in cotton, plastic globes, lightbulbs, electric wiring.

For J' Adore Miss Dior (AP) uses an everyday object, such as a perfume bottle, to create a monumental, festive-looking bow, which hides a meaning related to identity or gender stereotypes.