In collaboration with Lövendahl, Zakarian co-organized and curated the 2nd BLACKLANDS group exhibition on 12-19th of October 2024.
The show was extended at Galleri Ørn until November 9th and expanded by 50+ more artworks via the BLACKLANDS Catalogue, available physically and online for a limited time.
Group Exhibition | BLACKLANDS
28 January 2024
Group Exhibition | BLACKLANDS II Extended
19 March 2025
BLACKLANDS is a sample of contemporary artists who work in different media and forms of expression, but where the raw, black color and dark themes are fixed parts of the repertoire.
Black is the absence of light, and in many cultures it is the symbol of the chaotic, the melancholic and the mysterious.
But black is also elegant, classic, universal – the poetic silhouette backlit by the sun, the necessary Winter-time that reinforces the longing for the life-giving Spring.
The exhibition is created by Mariam Zakarian and co-organized by Kit Løvendahl. The intention is to present artists who explore the realm outside the conventionally attractive.
Black is the absence of light, and in many cultures it is the symbol of the chaotic, the melancholic and the mysterious.
But black is also elegant, classic, universal – the poetic silhouette backlit by the sun, the necessary Winter-time that reinforces the longing for the life-giving Spring.
The exhibition is created by Mariam Zakarian and co-organized by Kit Løvendahl. The intention is to present artists who explore the realm outside the conventionally attractive.
PARTICIPATING ARTISTS and MUSICIANS
The first BLACKLANDS exhibition featured 5 artists from Denmark. BLACKLANDS II presented 6 artists, 2 of whom were international: photographer Nona Limmen from The Netherlands and German illustrator and printmaker Inken Stabell. Additionally to the artworks on the walls, 3-dimensional art was also included in the form of Esben Horn‘s and Emma Marita Westergaard‘s innovative sculptures. Two of the artists from last year were also included this time: Monica Hee Eun‘s dark femme fatales and the mythological creatures of Unatur.
Dutch artist who explores the perpetual interaction between light and shadow through experimental photography and art direction. The core of her art focuses on themes of shadow work, immersive escapism and finding beauty in darkness. With her thought-provoking and dreamlike images she invites the viewer to self-analysis, gently nudging them to tap into their subconscious and examine their inner world.
Danish sculptor creating natural wonders with artificial materials. For 25 years Horn has guided his company 10 Tons to global prominence in the world of natural history museums. His deep understanding of materials and techniques, coupled with an unrelenting creative drive, has now given rise to something new—sculptures that blur the line between art and science. These works, a natural evolution of his craft, are brought to life through Studio Megaton, the artistic arm of 10 Tons. Photos by Rasmus Sigvaldi.
German printmaker and illustrator, best known for atmospheric landscape etchings. With a background in classical atelier training and contemporary illustration studies, Stabell’s most recent works are connected to music, e.g. a sequence of 24 etchings visualizing Franz Schubert’s Winterreise song cycle, or album cover illustrations for contemporary musicians.
She currently works in Sweden.
Danish/South Korean artist Monica Hee Eun is primarily a painter, but also works with digital art, lino print and ceramic painting.
Her work delves into the shadowy realms of human nature, exploring primal urges like the thirst for power and pleasure. These intense themes often manifest in her depictions of fierce, seductive feminine figures, blending sensuality with a raw, unapologetic edge.
Avant-garde leather sculptures and upholstery rooted in an experimental approach to manually manipulating leather into shape, and a strong focus on the tactile and intuitive experience both during the process, and in the outcome. Westergaard holds a master in fashion design from the Danish Royal Academy, but she chose to abandon her career in high level sportswear design to dedicate herself to more artistic and experimental work. Blondie Bites became a counter-reaction to corporate, economy-driven product design and design in 2D. Photos by Kasper Jensen.
Armenian artist based in Copenhagen, working with classical drawing, painting, photography, film, and virtual reality. The “Unatur” project is inspired by myths and iconic archetypes found in classical marble sculptures and dusty, old books. Stormy, curling compositions capture poisonous plants and dangerous creatures in intricately detailed drawings, but not as a warning – rather, for their abundant, timeless beauty.
The exhibition week also included the first ever solo show by guitarist Adrian Utzon Dietz
and the debut concert of dungeon synth artist Taagebue.
Adrian Utzon Dietz
Copenhagener Adrian Utzon Dietz is a seasoned guitarist known for his work as leading axeman for the recently abdicated black metal kings Solbrud, while he has also served time as hired hands under banners such as Demon Head, Sulphurous and a handful of other prominent acts on the heavier end of Denmark’s rock- and metal scene. Adrian’s atmospheric and formidable style encompasses classical, folk, blues, rock and extreme metal alike, and at the opening of Blacklands II we are presented with an unique opportunity to witness the six-string-slinger on his own, for an evocative and concise acoustic set, consisting of the artists own back catalog and selected inspirational pieces. Photo by Linda Gabor.
Taagebue
Enchanting atmospheric Dungeon Synth from the Northern Marshes of Denmark.
Long spiralling compositions unfold with soaring melodies and an ethereal sound. A steady rhythm ensures an energetic expression, which keeps a determined flow towards ambitious conclusions.
With Tales of misty forest realms and its spirits, the project presents itself with references to an esoteric Danish folklore, but adding to it with poetic flair.
Long spiralling compositions unfold with soaring melodies and an ethereal sound. A steady rhythm ensures an energetic expression, which keeps a determined flow towards ambitious conclusions.
With Tales of misty forest realms and its spirits, the project presents itself with references to an esoteric Danish folklore, but adding to it with poetic flair.
From the exhibition
BLACKLANDS II was followed by an Extended Exhibition
at Galleri Ørn, Copenhagen
Additionally, the BLACKLANDS Catalogue expanded the exhibition
with 50+ artworks by the artists in physical portfolios
available at Lövendahl and online.
