On February 13th, 2025, GR Gallery in New York City held a VIP opening of “Hidden Lights,” a solo exhibition by Italian visual artist Geppy Pisanelli. This exhibition, running through March 15, 2025, delves into the dynamic interplay between nature and artificial constructs, inviting viewers to explore themes of resilience and renewal in contemporary society. He says, “[His] artistic research is rooted in exploring painting as a profound communication medium. Through meticulous planning and a focus on the semantic and metaphorical resonance of imagery, [he] construct[ed] compositions that extend beyond the surface, inviting deeper engagement with the narrative and symbolic dimensions of the visual world.”
Building upon his previous group exhibition, “Dreaming Awake,” at GR gallery in 2023, Pisanelli’s latest series juxtaposes natural elements—such as water bodies, trees, mountains, and waterfalls—with artificial structures like minimalist shelters and synthetic lighting. This contrast highlights the relationship between the organic and the man-made, placing artificial objects in unexpected natural settings to evoke a sense of visual and intellectual alienation. The exhibition’s “Hidden Lights” title embodies this juxtaposition, presenting an oxymoron that challenges traditional perceptions of visibility and illumination.
The VIP exhibition show was very lively–Pisanelli had a line of people waiting to talk to him about his artwork–asking what he meant with every brush stroke.
Through his paintings, he includes an interplay between tradition and innovation, striking a balance by “including natural and artificial elements–creating a tension between them.” His work explores painting as a medium of communication, and when I asked him about this, he simply said, “It’s up to the viewer,” which was his response to most of my questions about the pieces.
Two pieces stood out to me, and they seemed to be different angles of the same scene. He confirmed that for me but said I should not listen to what he interprets it as but let myself make assumptions of what either could be.
The exhibition offers an immersive experience that challenges perceptions and inspires reflection. Visitors are invited to engage with Pisanelli’s distinctive visual language, which resonates with contemporary audiences and encourages contemplation of reality’s multifaceted nature.
“Hidden Lights” is on display at GR gallery, 255 Bowery, New York, NY, from February 14th to March 15th, 2025.
Let us know what your favorite piece was!
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
