Dairo Vargas: Coexistent Narratives

Maddox Gallery is proud to present ‘Coexistent Narratives’, the much-anticipated second solo exhibition by Colombian-born artist Dairo Vargas—an evocative new chapter in his exploration of identity and the silent influence of space.

Renowned for his evocative paintings, Vargas examines the emotional architecture of memory, inviting viewers into layered spaces where past and present merge. “In my creative process, layers are essential—not just through brushstrokes, but also through memories drawn from my personal experiences,” Vargas explains. “I'm continually adding and subtracting elements, reflecting how we handle memories ourselves. Our brains reconstruct and build more complex narratives to better tell our stories.”

In this new body of work, Vargas explores how real and imagined spaces shape identity and preserve the emotional residue of experience. Each canvas becomes a layered stage where multiple tales coexist, with arches, ruins, abstract figures, and distant columns appearing like visual echoes, fragments from past lives suspended in time. “They are emotional and spiritual landscapes, each holding a distinct mood, energy, or inner monologue,” he explains.

Vargas further emphasises, “Movement is another crucial element in my artwork. I believe deeply in the spiritual dimension of existence—our essence as constantly moving particles, energetically interacting. I provide visual cues to help viewers interpret the artwork, reflecting my ongoing dialogue with the canvas.” 

These works reveal the overlapping structures of thought, time, and identity, drawing viewers through scenes that feel familiar yet fragmented—mirroring the elusive nature of recall. “The spaces we inhabit shape the stories we carry,” Vargas reflects. “Fragments of the past remain embedded in the places we leave behind.”

‘Coexistent Narratives’ invites a quiet encounter with the sacred, fragile, and transitional, where every canvas holds the silent presence of environments that shape who we are. Open until 1 August 2025 at Shepherd Market.

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