On 24th November, emerging visual artist Eleana Kostiani presents her first solo exhibition ‘comfortable discomfort’, curated by Gelly Gryntaki and Harikleia Papapostolou, at Feelium Gallery & Studios in the heart of London.

‘comfortable discomfort’ delves into the enchanting yet disquieting realm of Eleana Kostiani’s artistry. Drawing inspiration from 20th century female surrealism and contemporary pop imagery, Kostiani’s paintings unfold with a disturbing fairy tale quality. Beneath the tender hues, reminiscent of children’s books, lie unexpected enigmatic images that unfold like mysterious stories’ illustrations, creating a dreamy, flowing atmosphere.

My tie fell on the well, 2023. Acrylics on paper, 41x30cm

Kostiani’s unique approach involves a sensitive use of watercolours and crochet, materials traditionally associated with domesticity and childhood. This familiarity takes an unsettling turn upon closer inspection of the subjects. Creepy fingers lurk beneath majestic fountains, furniture sizes undergo mysterious alterations, and house interiors transform into magically threatening spaces. The artwork exists on the border between reality and fantasy, awakening and dreaming, exploring childhood nightmares and psychoanalytic connotations.

Angry fairy, 2023. Acrylics on paper, 29.5x42cm

About Eleana Kostiani:

Eleana Kostiani is a Greek visual artist based in London, known for her distinctive style that blends elements of surrealism and contemporary pop imagery. Her work explores the delicate balance between reality and fantasy, creating a unique and thought-provoking artistic experience. Kostiani holds a BA in Fine Art: Painting from the University of the Arts London.

Eleana Kostiani

Follow Eleana Kostiani on social media for exclusive updates:

Website: www.eleana-kostiani.com
Instagram: @eleana.kostiani

About Gelly Gryntaki:

Gelly Gryntaki is an art curator and writer based in London. She has curated many shows in Greece and abroad, and several of her texts have been published in print and digital press. She has studied physics and has a PhD in History and Theory of Contemporary Art.

About Harikleia Papapostolou:

Harikleia Papapostolou is a Greek visual artist based in London. Her diverse works, including painting, installations, videos, photography, and textiles, explore the impact of time on the ontological and existential sphere, often incorporating concepts of transcendence and meditation. Papapostolou has showcased her art in solo and group exhibitions in London, Athens and Venice. She holds an MA in Textiles from the Royal College of Art and an MA in Fine Art from the University of the Arts London, along with a BFA in Visual and Applied Arts from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

Exhibition: comfortable discomfort
Artist: Eleana Kostiani
Curated by: Gelly Gryntaki, Harikleia Papapostolou
Venue: Feelium Gallery & Studios, 7 Kensington Mall, Λονδίνο W8 4EB
Dates: 24 – 28 November 2023, 12pm – 6pm
Opening: 24 November 2023, 4pm – 9pm