EDITH TAÏONI: A SALUTE TO COLOR AND HISTORY
By Nii B. Andrews.
If you have a sound knowledge of art history, then the work of Edith Taïoni really comes alive.
She is fluent in multiple art movements.
In her mixed media paintings and sculptures, she presents, interprets, conflates and appropriates the varied themes and tropes of the old masters in order to provide her own commentary and perspectives.
Taïoni is a graduate in Fine Arts from the University of Strasbourg; she has since worked as a teacher and lecturer in contemporary art.
Her seamless movement between theory and practice is mirrored by similar motion between abstraction and figurative work.
“I am an eternal optimist”, she explains.
By utilizing motifs from Pop Art to provide a vivid visual presence, she enables us to return to the playfulness and innocence of childhood with the paintings “Parrot” and “Heart”.
The impact of the colors and patterns was so immediate that it prompted a collaboration that utilized the paintings for garments and rugs.
The wearers of the garments thus evolve into living installations – and of course so do the interiors.
Her boldness becomes further evident when she ever so delicately references the work of the Flemish master, Vermeer.
Taïoni tap dances effortlessly and captures his ambience….the result, a triptych, “Tribute to Vermeer”.
Is this also a nod to her solid middle class demographic?
Perhaps so, for her oeuvre includes compositions showing playing cards, the paraphernalia of royalty, still lifes and maps.
The color schemes and juxtaposition of shapes and objects lead us to surmise that some symbolism albeit covert must be present and we are being invited to interpret it.
Taïoni also tackles sculpture.
They may be giant animals made from open metal…..camels or horses.
Smaller metal sculptures include musical instruments, furniture and a conglomerations of cascading teapots.
Metal….always metal – open work with fine patterns in the form of ferns or lace or sometimes arabesque.
The execution is such that even the giant pieces beg to placed indoors and look entirely appropriate there.
Taïoni has had numerous exhibitions in Europe, Africa and the Middle East; her work is in several important collections.
She has lived in Marrakech for the last 12 years.
In her latest project, she has turned her gaze towards the orientalist paintings of the 19th century masters.
It will be interesting to see what her tremendous talent and meticulous technique will work this often derided genre into.
Based on what Taïoni has achieved so far, we should expect something new and exciting.
Very colourful works!
Positive vibes in an often mundane world. Great stuff 👍
Thanks SJ, brighten your corner +++
Have a great day.
Beautiful colours. Love the work.
I believe I saw someone I know in one of the photos.
Yes MCA, you almost certainly did. Have a great day.