Artist Tom Leamon has launched a highly-anticipated solo exhibition at the ART1a Gallery in Lucerne, Switzerland.
“Heart of Switzerland” celebrates Leamon’s interpretation of the Heart of Switzerland and Lucerne’s cultural richness and features sculptures, three-dimensional work, typewriting, and digital art, as well as traditional paintings. It was borne out of the artist’s collaboration with ART1a’s founder Pius Müller at a successful pop-up exhibit in Portugal, where Leamon has a gallery and art retreat.
Müller sees the project as a way to blend ART1a’s innovative vision and approach with the opportunity for visitors to get far closer to the creative process than they would in a traditional gallery, where artists bring completed works to exhibit. The whole process was open to the public, allowing visitors to witness the installation and interact with Leamon. One of its first visitors was the Ambassador for Lithuania.
Leamon began creating sketches and conceptualizing his new work following an introductory tour around the lake of Lucerne with Müller in May. Inspired by the beauty of the lake, the rich history, and stories of the region’s past artists, musicians, painters and writers, he also used found objects such as a vintage typewriter, wood pieces, and discarded frames materials to help him start developing his ideas. This approach ingrains his work with a sense of historical resonance and depth.
“There’s just so much beautiful history, and walking around, every nook and cranny you looked at was amazing. I found myself in an environment where I was able to imagine again and be really enthusiastic,” Leamon reflected.
According to Müller, Leamon’s ability to engage with the public and collaborate with other artists enhances the interactive and communal aspect of the project: “He’s fascinating on a
social and artistic level. He’s not just the artist who works at home for himself; he does it all in groups, considering other artists, making events, and opening doors for others”.
The exhibition also marks Leamon’s first foray into oil painting.
The exhibition is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 2-6.30pm, and Saturdays from 12-4pm until 25th of November. For more information, visit the Art1a Gallery website.
Featured Photo by Krystof Jakubiak.