Artwork in the room
Gerda Grigaliūnaitė is an artist whose creative path began in her childhood, shaped by the hours she spent in her father’s art studio. From an early age, her parents fostered her appreciation for art and encouraged her to pursue formal training. Gerda’s initial studies took place at the Adomas Brakas School of Art, where she developed foundational skills, which were later deepened during her time at Gray's School of Art at Robert Gordon University, helping to define her artistic vision and identity.
While at university, Gerda started to treat her paintings and illustrations as a form of visual diary, capturing glimpses of reality infused with imaginative elements. What sets her apart is her frequent use of animals instead of human figures in her works. These animals, depicted in recognizable situations or engaging in common activities—such as receiving diplomas or taking selfies—allow Gerda to explore her identity in ways that are both personal and relatable.
In Gerda's creations, animals are more than mere stand-ins for people; they serve as representations of aspects of the artist’s own character. By portraying animals in familiar, human-like scenarios, she crafts scenes with broad appeal. These creatures, at once playful and thoughtful, encourage viewers to identify with them, creating a meaningful connection that bridges the gap between artist and audience and renders her art universally engaging.
Gerda Grigaliūnaitė’s singular style and storytelling have brought her recognition within the art community. Her work has been shown at significant exhibitions such as New Designers 2019 in London, as well as at major art fairs in Lithuania including the Jurassic Festival in Klaipėda and Vilnius Days. These exhibitions have enabled Gerda to present her visual diaries to a broader public, emphasizing her distinctive talent and creative voice.
About this artwork+
The painting vividly presents a striking scene set against a vibrant red backdrop with a black and white foreground. At first glance, the scene is filled with industrial motifs including a large crane, rustic buildings that resemble a shipyard or old factory, and an array of what appears to be shipping containers. Dominating the composition are several figures clad in red, drawing immediate attention. One figure on the left side is seated, looking directly out with an expression that conveys pensiveness or unrest. This figure's costume is reminiscent of a spacesuit or protective gear. To the right, standing atop what looks like a deck of a ship, another red figure holds a red flag, adding a note of defiance or declaration to the setting. Throughout the environment are surreal details that blend urban decay with fantastical elements; fish float in the sky like clouds, and various animals, including dogs and rats, are scattered throughout the scene, contributing to a post-apocalyptic or dystopian vision. The overall atmosphere is tense, loaded with a narrative that suggests themes of isolation, survival, and resistance.
