In Le Soleil n’existe pas at Stems Gallery‘s Brussels outpost, Leo Luccioni probes the existence of the sun and reality itself through a critique of consumer culture. His vivid paintings depict monarch butterflies drawn to bright, sugary packaging, highlighting the tension between nature and industrialized products. Luccioni’s use of airbrush, a technique popularized by 1970s advertising, emphasizes the hyperrealism of these everyday items, blurring the line between art and commodity.
Key pieces like “Coucher de soleil” challenge the viewer to question the source of light in abstract landscapes, while leather punching bags invite physical interaction, provoking thoughts on the value of packaging. Luccioni’s work critiques overconsumption and explores the artificiality in modern life, forcing viewers to reconsider what is real and what is manufactured desire.
The exhibition also draws parallels to contemporary issues such as environmental degradation and the effects of capitalism on nature. By presenting a world where beauty is intertwined with consumerism, Luccioni encourages viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the objects they consume and the environment they inhabit. This introspection elevates the exhibition beyond mere aesthetics, positioning it as a vital commentary on the complexities of modern existence.
Le Soleil n’existe pas is on view through November 16 at Stems Gallery in Brussels.
Stems Gallery
Rue du Prince Albert 4
1050 Ixelles
Belgium
