Poetics of Geometry

Poetics of Geometry
A solo art exhibition by
Beata Kozlowska
Thistle Hall Gallery 18-24 December 2023
Cuba Street, Wellington 6022 Preview 19 December 6-8.30 pm

You are warmly invited to ‘Poetics of Geometry, a solo exhibition featuring new abstract paintings by Beata Kozlowska. Over the last several years Wellington-based artistic journey, Kozlowska delves into the painterly medium, focusing on the language of abstraction. 'Poetics of Geometry' explores unique visual associations from geometric shapes, analogous to the play of language in poetics. Kozlowska employs elements like colour, shape, texture, form and structure to manifest in varying scales and frequencies, mirroring nature.

The term "Geometry" originates from the Greek words 'geo' (earth) and 'metrein' (to measure). Kozlowska's work explores the interplay between poetics and geometry, employing geometric shapes, lines, haphazard semi-grids, and multiple layering techniques. Embracing negative space and concealing specific areas in her compositions, she engages in an unpredictable and playful process that challenges traditional geometric laws. This emphasis on the freedom of abstraction invites viewers to explore multiple interpretations. Drawing inspiration from European constructivism, Bauhaus, mid-century design and architecture and human sensations Kozlowska subtly alludes to these influences in her work.
Kozlowska improvises with contrasting elements, exploring the tension between structure and chaos, reflecting the uncertainties of the world. The manipulation of forms and improvisation defines Kozlowska's artistic process, driven by the quest for internal balance within the composition.

Beata Kozlowska (born in Poland) currently lives and works in Wellington, New Zealand, (since 2016). She received her MA Fine Art at Chelsea College of Art and Design (UAL) London and her BA (Single Hons.) in Fine Art Drawing, Camberwell College of Art at University of the Arts (UAL) London, UK, where she lived and worked for 12 years. Before her time in London, she studied Polish Literature and Linguistics, earning a Master's Degree from the University of Warsaw.
Kozlowska has exhibited extensively in London, the UK, and internationally in countries such as Lithuania and Spain. Her participation in various international art residencies and projects includes 'Working Title' at Aspex Gallery in Portsmouth, (UK), JOYA in Los Velez, Spain, KCCC Creative Center in Klaipeda, Lithuania, and 'Arteles Creative Centre' in Finland.

Since 2016, Beata Kozlowska has been residing and working in Wellington, taking a break for her young family. During this time, she participated in a two-person show at Thistle Hall Gallery, an in-situ project at Toi Poneke (2016), and more recently, in the group show ‘Do Not Swallow’ at Safehouse1&2 in London, UK. Her works can be found in private collections in the UK, New Zealand, and Spain.