Ulrike Theusner's New York Debut 'Limbo Express' at Y Gallery Explores Whimsical Grotesque

German artist Ulrike Theusner presented her first solo exhibition in New York at Y Gallery on the Lower East Side. Titled 'Limbo Express,' the show ran from July 18 to August 4, 2012, at 165 Orchard Street between Stanton and Rivington streets. Theusner's ink drawings feature theatrical figures existing in ambiguous states between blessing and damnation. Her work displays influences from historical artists including Francisco Goya, Honoré Daumier, Pietro Longhi, James Ensor, and Félicien Rops. Using scratchy pen lines and deliberate ink drips, she creates a bestiary of cuddly ghouls and glamorous figures. The exhibition included pieces like 'Das Ende der Jugend' (2012), an ink on paper work measuring 45 by 61 centimeters. Gallery hours were noon to 7 PM daily during the exhibition period. David Cohen reviewed the show for artcritical, noting Theusner's unique blend of whimsy and grotesque imagery.