Michal Borremans202467David Zwirner

mise-en-scne /

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THE ACROBAT17

Presenting the Belgian artist Michal Borremanss newest group of psychologically charged paintings, this catalogue highlights his exceptional technical skill, interest in figuration, and innovative approach to mise-en-scne.

Everything is a self-portrait. And now I have been painting monkeys. . . . Its like making a movie. Michal Borremans, Interview magazine

As a pendant to his acclaimed catalogue The Acrobat, The Monkey showcases seventeen paintings that reveal his interest in exploring surface and artifice. Borremans portrays mysterious sittersincluding the titular monkeys, which are glazed toy figurinesand depicts enigmatic scenes that simultaneously invite viewers in and keep them at bay.

Katya Tylevichs insightful commentary delves into the depths of Borremanss compositions, connecting the themes and motifs in The Monkey to those present in previous bodies of work. Tylevich delves into the complex emotional and art-historical registers at play in the artists new paintings and maps the trajectory of his practice, observing other instances of repetition and fabulation across his practice. The publication, featuring this essay alongside beautifully illustrated images of the new paintings, serves as the ideal complement to the artists 2024 exhibition at David Zwirner, London.