Andrew Salgado, a London-based artist with roots in New Brunswick, Canada, has recently unveiled a new body of work that revolves around the concept that we are the books we read. His exhibition at BEERS London, titled “Self-Portrait as a Stack of Books,” delves into the idea that every unread book holds infinite possibilities and shapes our identity in profound ways.
The series of paintings in Salgado’s exhibition function like chapters in a larger narrative, each piece offering a glimpse into the artist’s literary influences and personal reflections. One standout work, “My Year Of Rest And Relaxation,” directly references Ottessa Moshfegh’s novel of the same name, capturing a sense of inertia and detachment in the protagonist. Another piece, “Véra (Please Come Over, You’re Always Welcome),” depicts the resolute Véra Nabokov in a moment of contemplation, possibly writing a letter that has since been lost to time.
Salgado’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in the act of citation and the interplay between memory, experience, and creative expression. Drawing inspiration from authors like Virginia Woolf, Jorge Luis Borges, and Margaret Atwood, who often reference art forms in their work, Salgado explores the reciprocal relationship between literature and visual art. Through intuitive marks of oil paint and pastel, he builds up layers of texture and depth in his compositions, leaving room for interpretation and personal associations.
The artist’s belief in the multiplicity of meanings is evident in his approach to creating art. He invites viewers to engage with his work on their own terms, encouraging them to draw connections between the paintings, the books that inspired them, and their own experiences. For Salgado, there are no wrong answers, only a rich tapestry of interpretations waiting to be unraveled.
“Self-Portrait as a Stack of Books” is a thought-provoking exploration of the ways in which literature shapes our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. The exhibition will be on view at BEERS London until June 28, offering a glimpse into Salgado’s captivating fusion of storytelling and visual art. To learn more about Andrew Salgado and his work, visit his website and follow him on Instagram for updates and insights into his creative process.
