EXHYPNOSIS by Dylan Solomon Kraus

A collection of works by American artist Dylan Solomon Kraus. It was published in conjunction with an exhibition held at Peres Projects in Berlin from April to June 2023.

「ExHypnosis" is a word created by the author, and is translated as "awake," as a concept, and is further emphasized by the dream-like, shady scenarios found in the artist's paintings. It is important to repeat, with recurring motifs such as the cosmic clocktower and submerged cities dancing with the moment of deja vu, the new Baptist and the birds in the bushes. This book is a selection of artists' paintings produced over the past four years, and is a record of the author's own and itinerary in his activities.

Through his third solo exhibition with Perez Projects, the author explores the concept of hypnosis and its counterparts in order to awaken the world. This was the first exhibition in Berlin, and this exhibition, which was held at the same time as "Berlin Gallery Week," was a warning to society. This work is an antithesis to the concept of hypnosis, which places the object in a trance state, cuts its connection with the surrounding world, and turns it into an automatic machine that prevents people from thinking, and arouses subjectivity. It is shocking the system that allows people to live their lives aimlessly.

The author says, "ExHypnosisI explored this concept in a collection of paintings that spanned the title ". The author grew up hiking and camping, and was always feeling connected to the earth, stars and the spirits of the natural environment. The existence of celestial bodies and earth is incorporated as a clear space that underlies its own self. Each piece has its own life, sending a powerful message to the audience, and deeply connected to the eyes of seeing them. Although not in this world, these works, rooted in human conditions, create a space for careful thought and meaningful conversations about our world. By turning your eyes to imaginary symbols placed in real space, you can bridge the gap between truth and fiction.