Moments Before the Storm I Sat at My Table with A Glass of Wine, Relishing the Last Rays of Sunshine, Not Knowing They Were Actually the Last
2021
Shown at Kunsthalle Palazzo, Liestal
In her work, Anita Mucolli deals with fictional spaces, which she recreates architecturally and thus makes them physically tangible. The spaces she creates appear like film sets, ready to be brought to life with a story. As a viewer within these walk-in spaces, one becomes the protagonist and contributes a decisive part to the work with movement and thought. One's own memories and the personal references connected with the atmosphere of the room are mixed with what is seen. Fiction and reality can no longer be clearly separated. By means of physical presence, the spaces are withdrawn from fiction and transferred into our own reality.
For the Kunsthalle Palazzo, Anita Mucolli has created a new spatial installation that completely changes the original exhibition space and immerses visitors in a unique atmosphere. Upon entering, the first thing that catches the eye is the shiny white floor. We find ourselves in a kind of public transit space that seems almost antiseptic due to the bright surroundings and the sparse furnishings. On our right, a door flanked by two lights opens and attracts us. as we approach it tensely and pass through this narrow passage, we enter a lift-like cabin.
Where are we? Is this a lift that can take us to another floor, to another place, or perhaps even to another time? Looking around more closely, we discover an opening in the wall that allows us to see through. An almost dream-like scenery can be seen. Shrouded in dim light, a new, visible, but not accessible space unfolds. Could this be an insight into one's own past? Or does this window glimpse into the memory of another person? Anita Mucolli has created a highly fascinating spatial landscape that enables a journey into personal worlds and imaginary times. She lets us immerse ourselves in mental as well as built spaces, leaving behind a kaleidoscope of inner and outer images.
-Michael Babics, Curator of Kunsthalle Palazzo
