New Exhibition At Metamorphoses Gallery Honours the Artistic Process of Making

Although making art can sometimes be as simple as 'just doing it', it would take a fool to believe the artistic process is just child's play. If anything, the act of making is far from it - something Amsterdam-based gallery founder Nadine Snijders knows a thing or two about, hence her new show Observations at Metamorphoses gallery.

Featuring fifty meticulously handcrafted objects, Snijders's exhibition presents itself as an homage to both the act of creation and art of observation (note, the title) as viewers are invited to explore the intricate narratives woven into each piece, laden with stories that document their journey and foundation as Objets d'art in their own right. While the show will exhibit a line-up of designers from the Netherlands and beyond, there's a specially-curated emphasis on items that balance poetry with a timeless aesthetic; notions embedded in all works showcased by artists who are distinguished for combining traditional techniques with contemporary technology. Standouts from artists new to Metamorphoses include Rino Claessens and Seon-hyeok Yoon in addition to varying existing collaborators: BuroBelén, Aldo Bakker, Destroyers/Builders and Bloc Studios.

'Behind each of the designs in the Observations collection lies a wealth of untold stories and extensive research', notes Snijders, who makes a point of pointing out that an artwork (and therefore, artist) is more than its finished product. 'Society is often fixated on final products and less interested in the narratives behind the objects, so with Metamorphoses I wanted to not only offer access to final works but also a lens into the stories behind them - the countless hours of brainstorming, experimentation and refinement that designers and artists put into each piece.'

Continuing to stress the importance of 'process' when it comes to making, Snijders also gently touches upon the significance of making mistakes in order to grow as an artist. 'All of the designers we chose to work with illustrate in their own unique way that only through iterative cycles of trial and error can they develop new techniques, innovate their craft, and hone their artistic identity. My hope for Observations is that we can take visitors on a journey of discovery and offer a glimpse into each of the designers’ creative process.'

As we continue to navigate mass consumption and corporate greed at the hands of capitalism, consider Observations to be a new way of observing, looking and thinking about art and the objects we choose to have around us. Why are we attracted to certain things and who gets to decide that attraction? 'In a world inundated with mass-produced goods, collectible design offers a respite—a chance to slow down and to engage in a deeper, more meaningful relationship with the objects that surround us' opined Snijders in a statement to press. 'Through the act of observation, we can uncover the hidden treasures (beauty, innovation, craftsmanship) that lie beneath the surface.'

The collection will be available to purchase from 3 April 2024 with pricing starting from £250 at www.metamorphosesobjects.com.