Abend Gallery warmly invites you to step into the whimsical world of Marina Dieul with the unveiling of "Bestiaire," a solo exhibition that marries the realms of imagination and reality. This enchanting collection opens its doors on June 13th, accompanied by a reception opening on June 18th, from 5 to 8 PM at our Golden Triangle location, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through the art of storytelling and the magic of miniature painting.

In "Bestiaire," Marina Dieul embarks on an explorative narrative, crafting a series of round, trompe-l'oeil masterpieces that draw inspiration from the cherished fairy tales of our childhoods. Each piece serves as a window into a vibrant universe where animals, borrowed from the pages of timeless stories, take center stage in their own right. From the cunning antics of mischievous cats to the gentle whispers of tiny mice, Dieul's creations invite us to question the boundaries between what is real and what springs from the depths of our imaginations.

With meticulous attention to detail and a profound love for her craft, Dieul blurs the lines between the canvas and our world, challenging viewers to see beyond the surface. Her work is a celebration of the intricate dance between the seen and the unseen, the tangible and the ethereal, encouraging us to embark on a journey of wonder and introspection.

"Bestiaire" is not just an exhibition; it is a heartfelt ode to the enduring allure of storytelling and the transformative power of art. It reminds us that, regardless of age, the enchantment of a fairy tale world is never far from reach, waiting to be rediscovered through the magic of imagination and the stroke of a brush.

Join us at Abend Gallery for this mesmerizing solo show by Marina Dieul, where every painting is a testament to the beauty of narrative art and the endless possibilities it holds. Let us welcome you into a space where art and fairy tales intertwine, offering a momentary escape into a world of whimsy, nostalgia, and sheer wonder. "Bestiaire" awaits your presence, ready to rekindle the joy and curiosity of your childhood imagination.

📅 Exhibition Dates: June 7 - June 25 June 7 - July 12 (We are thrilled to announce that the exhibition has been extended until July 12th, giving you more time to experience this magical showcase.)

🎉 Opening Reception: June 18th, 5 - 8 PM (Please note, the opening date for the exhibition has been changed to June 18th. It was originally scheduled for the 13th. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.)

📍 Location: 1261 Delaware St, Suite 2, Denver, CO 80204

Artist Statement

In my solo exhibition, "Bestiaire" I invite viewers to immerse themselves in a world where imagination dances effortlessly with reality. Through a series of miniature paintings mostly round, meticulously crafted in trompe-l'oeil style, I explore the enchanting realm of animals drawn from the rich tapestry of children's fairy tales.

Each painting is a portal into a whimsical narrative, where tiny mice, mischievous cats, and other charming creatures inhabit a universe brimming with magic and wonder. By employing trompe-l'oeil techniques, I aim to blur the boundaries between the two-dimensional canvas and the three-dimensional world, enticing viewers to question what is real and what is imagined.

Drawing inspiration from timeless stories passed down through generations, I infuse each artwork with a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. Yet, within these familiar tales, I strive to breathe new life, offering fresh perspectives and hidden nuances waiting to be discovered.

As viewers gaze upon these diminutive masterpieces, they are invited to embark on a journey of exploration and contemplation. Through the delicate strokes of my brush, I seek to evoke emotions ranging from whimsy and delight to introspection and curiosity. 

"Bestiaire" is not merely a collection of paintings; it is a celebration of the power of storytelling and the enduring magic of childhood imagination. It is my sincere hope that this exhibition serves as a reminder that, no matter our age, there is always room in our hearts for a little bit of fairy tale enchantment. - Marina Dieul