“Gentle Resistance”: the unexpected and intriguing duo of artists Indra Marcinkeviciene and Antanas Sutkus in France
In October, the exhibition “Gentle Resistance” by artists Indra Marcinkevičienė and Antanas Sutkus was presented at the Town Hall of Burganef, France, which is located in an impressive medieval complex. The exhibition is a visual dialogue between the two artists, telling a modern, understandable and sensitive story about a difficult period in the history of our country – the occupation. However, as Neringa Miller, the curator of the exhibition, says, this is not a historical exhibition, but rather a sensitive story about Man and his nature, which makes him protect what he holds dear – his own self. The exhibition invites a calm, easy and sometimes ironic look at the twists and turns of history and conveys a message of solidarity to all nations that have experienced, or are still experiencing, similar challenges on their path to independence.
A creative symphony with photographer Antanas Sutkus
In this exhibition, the works of Indra Marcinkeviciene and Antanas Sutkus merge in a harmonious and, according to experts, incredible dialogue. Antanas Sutkus’ meek monochromes and Indra Marcinkevičienė’s dramatic colours reflected the two dimensions of reality – real fragments of history and abstract but moving lyrical narratives. Sutkus’ photographs are like anchors, testifying to our past, where the experience of not only Lithuanians, but also of other peoples who have suffered from political oppression, lies. And the artist’s works, which at first glance radiate colour and energy, are full of emotions – from irony to melancholy.
The visual language of the exhibition is not accidental. The contrasting works by Indra Marcinkevičienė and Antanas Sutkus speak from different perspectives of time and artistic expression about the same universal themes: humanity, connection, sustainability of the spirit and fundamental values: “I wanted to show how far Lithuania has come since those sad, grey times of occupation; that contemporary artists, such as Indra Marcinkevičienė, can freely talk about this painful period from a contemporary perspective without diminishing or mourning it. It is also a synthesis of our inner backbone, Lithuanian sensitivity and resilience. I find that very beautiful. I wanted the French to feel that. It seems that we have succeeded,” said Neringa Miller after the exhibition.
The particularities of creativity and the symbolism of globality
Indra Marcinkeviciene’s work is a striking synthesis of tradition and contemporary art. The artist’s work explores the emotional field of women, war and life under political oppression. Her works range from patronizing or fatalistic Madonnas to ironic, banana-like fountain sculptures. These works, with their dramatic colouring and the ambiguity of the themes they touch upon, invite the viewer to enter into a dialogue: to distinguish between irony and truth, and between concept and fact. “I regret that my work is a bit too bold for the Lithuanian public, but in foreign countries such as France, Japan, Singapore, Belgium, the Netherlands and the USA, my work has been exceptionally well received and recognised. I have never received so much BRAVO! in my life,” says the artist, who has received recognition during her exhibitions during the Lithuanian season in France.
In addition to textiles and sculptures, I. Marcinkevičienė is also known for her interior design objects. She is an excellent colourist, able to combine colours in subtle ways. Her works not only radiate colour, but are also made from quality materials. An important motif in her earlier work is the egg, which symbolises eternity, fertility and perfection. Bananas, fish and delicate shapes dominate her current work. The interior design elements and furniture are enriched with bright colour solutions and conceptual ambitions, distinctive ideas and stories.
I. Marcinkeviciene’s works presented in France are a harmonious synthesis of ideas and forms, reflecting the global human challenges, experiences and the sensual spectrum of emotions. This exhibition not only highlighted the diversity of Lithuanian culture, but also showed how art can become a bridge between continents with different historical and cultural backgrounds.
A vision for the future
In addition to smaller-scale exhibitions in her home country, Indra Marcinkevičienė, who has impressed the Belgian painter Francisco Sepulveda at exhibitions in Lithuania and abroad, is preparing for an exhibition in Belgium. The painter has introduced the artist’s work to gallerists Patrick Mulders and Herman van Herk, whose initiative will be to present her personal collection of artworks, interior design elements and furniture at the LOUISE gallery. The exhibition will open on 15 December 2025 and run for 3 months.
