Chrysalis, 2022

Inspired by Las Meninas, the masterpiece of Diego Velázquez, Heimler & Proc situate the series within the relevant context. Retaining their signature language of bright colour, sharply delineated figures in dynamic, provocative poses, and lush New Zealand landscapes alive with birds, the artists capture the compositional play and theatrical complexity of Velázquez. Each canvas stages a seemingly spontaneous moment of Baroque abundance, rich and fertile.

The series can be read as a linear narrative centred on a young girl surrounded by fantastic, extravagant characters in scenes that appear unseemly for her age. Yet it is a story of awakening, of breaking the cocoon and finding one’s own voice.

Mirrors reflecting spectators, masked actors and illogical doublings destabilise the boundaries between reality and performance, creating a distinctive atmosphere of magical realism. The series Chrysalis marks a mature artistic statement — a revolution in which the protagonist takes control of both canvas and narrative before mirrors of infinite possibility.