Nedko Solakov's Double Solo Shows at MAXXI and Galleria Continua

Bulgarian artist Nedko Solakov (born 1957 in Červen Brjag, lives and works in Sofia) presents two concurrent solo exhibitions in Italy: 'A Cornered Solo Show #2' at MAXXI in Rome, curated by Hou Hanru and Monia Trombetta, and 'A Side Solo Show (drawings only)' at Galleria Continua in San Gimignano. The MAXXI show features an 'angled non-corner' installation that confronts viewers with Solakov's visionary world, blending autobiographical stories with reflections on contemporary life, including explicit references to the war in Ukraine. At Galleria Continua, a chronological survey of drawings from 1981 to 2022 is displayed, accompanied by the video 'Some of My Capabilities' (1995). In an interview, Solakov discusses his drawing process, which often begins with applying watercolor without a preconceived plan, then adding text in English for his editor's review. He describes his use of small figures to evoke solitude and emotional impact, and emphasizes the importance of humor and self-irony in his work. His father Mit'o was a sculptor, and his son Dimitar is a multidisciplinary artist. Solakov maintains two studios: one in Sofia and one in Boriki, near his hometown, where his mother still lives.