Much like the intricate workings of a clock, the beauty of art often lies in the unseen—the delicate gears turning behind the scenes to create something extraordinary. This philosophy is one that Dr. Konstantin believes in strongly. As such, he invited guests to experience this mystery firsthand. Konstantin Gallery hosted “Dreams Behind Mask” last Thursday, a dazzling masquerade soirée, celebrating the art of Jonas Leriche’s exhibition.
This wasn’t just an evening of glamour and pre-holiday festivities—it was a tribute to the invisible effort and creativity that bring art to life. As guests adorned in masks wandered through the gallery, they were reminded that what we see on the surface is only part of the story, and real truth is often much deeper than the glitzy exterior.
Born in Belgium in 1976, Jonas Leriche began his career in fashion photography, where he honed his technical skills. He then decided to take his work to another level. Seeking deeper meaning, Leriche moved to New York to focus exclusively on his art. This pivotal shift shaped his creative philosophy: the juxtaposition of the artificial and the authentic. His work challenges viewers to look beyond the surface, to uncover layers of meaning hidden beneath a cultivated image.
Leriche’s meticulous approach to his craft reflects this philosophy. Every photograph is constructed layer by layer, with shoots often requiring 18 plus hours of preparation. This painstaking process imbues his work with raw emotional depth, transforming polished visuals into evocative stories. “What matters to me is the transformation of emotions and intentional or subconscious ideas into gripping images,” Leriche says. “Each piece tells a story and the stories I create go far beyond the individual or anecdotal. My aim is not merely to create an aesthetically appealing artwork but to create something larger than life.”
At its heart, Dreams Behind Masks explores duality—the tension between what is seen and what is hidden. Leriche’s striking compositions juxtapose raw, natural elements with the flawless artifice of photography, prompting viewers to question their own perceptions. What lies beneath the beauty we see? What truths hide behind the masks we wear?
This theme extends to his broader body of work, including his sculptures and silkscreen prints. Pieces like Vanity Skulls explore the fleeting nature of life, contrasting symbols of wealth with reminders of mortality. These artworks embody Leriche’s ethos: to push beyond aesthetic appeal and create something deeply resonant.
The Konstantin Gallery’s closing reception brought this philosophy to life. Masked guests became part of the evening’s layered narrative. As the night unfolded, it became clear that the event was more than a celebration—it was an invitation to look deeper, to appreciate the unseen work that gives art its soul. Leriche’s photographs, much like his creative process, remind us that true beauty is often found in the effort, emotions, and stories hidden beneath the surface.
Jonas Leriche’s Dreams Behind Masks leaves a lasting impression not only through its visual splendor but also through the layers of meaning it reveals. The evening at Konstantin Gallery was a fitting farewell to a collection that inspires us to look beyond the surface—at art, at life, and at ourselves.
Though this chapter has ended, the Konstantin Gallery continues to be a hub for innovation and elegance. Stay tuned for future events that promise to captivate and delight.
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