Angela de la Cruz: Resilience in Art at Ikon Birmingham

Angela de la Cruz's exhibition, _Upright_, at Ikon Birmingham marks her first solo show outside London, despite her prominence in the art world, including a nomination for the Turner Prize in 2010. The exhibition features a collection of her artworks that embody themes of fragility and resilience, reflecting both the physical state of her own body and broader human experiences.

The Guardian

The artworks in _Upright_ are characterized by a sense of impending collapse. De la Cruz employs broken and folded canvases, alongside sculptures that appear precariously assembled. For instance, a black-painted canvas is wrapped around an old two-legged table, while a painting, described as a "fecal monochrome," is gaffer-taped back together after being damaged. These pieces evoke a sense of vulnerability, resembling bodies that are "faulty and leaky," yet still functioning.

The Guardian

The exhibition also includes a unique double upright piano, designed for a performance in collaboration with the Birmingham Royal Ballet. This piece, alongside others, emphasizes the theme of repair and resilience, akin to how ballet dancers mend their pointe shoes or how broken objects can be restored to functionality.

The Guardian

While the exhibition's reliance on modernist tropes such as monochromes and minimalism may initially present a formal appearance, the emotional and conceptual undercurrents are rich and complex. De la Cruz's works are described as humorous yet filled with frustration, capturing the struggle of the human condition. The artworks reflect a narrative of perseverance, illustrating the journey of overcoming adversity and the importance of continuing to move forward, even when faced with challenges.

The Guardian

Some critics argue that the formal aspects of de la Cruz's work can overshadow its emotional depth. The reliance on modernist aesthetics may lead to a perception of coldness, which contrasts with the underlying themes of resilience and humor present in her art. This tension between form and emotion raises questions about the effectiveness of her artistic choices in conveying her intended messages.

The Guardian

The exhibition has been well-received, with commentators noting its powerful storytelling. The juxtaposition of brokenness and functionality in de la Cruz's work resonates with audiences, prompting reflections on personal and collective struggles. The artist's own experience with disability adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, reinforcing the exhibition's themes of mending and resilience.

The Guardian

• “These are funny, humorous artworks, filled with frustration – paintings angrily smashed to reflect the destruction of the body, then quickly repaired as tempers cooled.” — The Guardian

The Guardian

• “Because you might be limping or hobbled, but you’ve got to keep moving.” — The Guardian

The Guardian

Angela de la Cruz's _Upright_ at Ikon Birmingham serves as a poignant exploration of resilience, inviting viewers to engage with the complexities of human experience through the lens of art.

The Guardian