Lib SHKUPOLLI
MAY 16TH — JUN 08TH
Lib Shkupolli, known as Lib, is an artist whose current work delves into the complexities of identity, masculinity, and the human form. Raised in Luxembourg but with roots in Kosovo, Lib's artistic journey has been shaped by his cultural heritage and his experiences navigating our society.
Lib's artistic journey is a tapestry of experiences, each thread contributing to the rich texture of his work. From his early days studying fine arts in Berlin to his later pursuits in socio-education in Liège, Lib's path has been marked by a quest for self-discovery and a commitment to exploring the human condition through art. His return to Luxembourg a decade ago marked a homecoming of sorts, yet it also signaled a new chapter in his creative evolution. Balancing his role as an „éducateur gradué“ with his passion for art, Lib found inspiration in the intersection of these seemingly disparate worlds, recognizing the inherent connections between education and artistic expression, allowing a symbiotic relationship between the two.
In his intimate home studio, nestled in the depths of his basement, Lib's creative vision comes to life. It is here, amidst the comforting hum of his surroundings, that he channels his experiences, thoughts, and observations into tangible form. Inspired by nature and flowers, the series of vases created during the tumultuous era of the pandemic served as a starting point for Lib’s creative process, capturing both the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. Infused with bold colors and organic shapes, these vases carry a weightiness in their rounded forms inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and find solace in their beauty. With their sand-like material and voluminous appearance however, they project a sense of strength and robustness.
Moving forward, Lib aims to explore this exact fluidity and heaviness of form, particularly focusing on the male body and its relationship to masculinity. Through his new creations, he seeks to challenge stereotypes and invites viewers to reconsider preconceived notions of strength and vulnerability and to question the narratives that shape our understanding of identity.
His works, displayed at Creutz(&)Friends, serve as catalysts for dialogue, encouraging conversations about identity, representation, and the intersections of social body perception and art. Lib's creations are not just aesthetically striking but also thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of the human experience.
ABOUT YLA — YOUNG LUXEMBOURGISH ARTISTS
The original idea of YLA (Young Luxembourgish Artists) is based on the loose artist group ‘Young British Artists’, which was founded in London, UK, in 1988 with artists such as Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, JennySaville, Cornelia Parker, Sarah Lucas, Gary Hume, Tacity Dean,... The majority of these artists studied Fine Art at Goldsmiths College of Art, London UK. They became known for their shock tactics and their opennessto experiment with different materials and media. Their exhibition ‘Sensation’ received much attention and was widely discussed in the press.
YLA was founded in 2021 because we felt the need to give a platform to young artists from Luxembourg. The first exhibition was a big project with 12 artists, exhibited in two separate spaces. After the exhibition wedecided to set up a non-profit association called YLA - Young Luxembourgish Artists. We continue organizing exhibitions under that association and act as a guide for the artists along their career. This year’s groupexhibition presents the work of 9 artists.
The majority of the artists that we show in the framework of YLA have completed studies in Fine Arts or Visual Arts. All of them have been born between the 1980s and 1990s. These artists are by no means a collective of artists, and should not represent a canon in art, but rather present different perspectives and express themselves freely through different media. They deal with current issues and ask questions. Most of these artists have had few or no exhibitions in Luxembourg but a few exhibitions abroad. The exhibitions weorganize are always curated and selected by us.
The artists we select for YLA have completed their studies abroad, due to the lack of art schools in their own country. This is by no means a criticism, however, as studying abroad broadens horizons and opens up newpathways. Thus, we think it’s important to give these artists visibility in the country they were born in or grewup in.
We are happy to provide a base at the beginning of their career and to show their talent to a large audience.
YLA was founded by Lou PHILIPPS and Gerard VALERIUS from Valerius Gallery.
