‘In the Little Bay’ is the second solo presentation of young German artist Mirjam Jacob (1983, Chemnitz) at Ornis A. Gallery. Jacob graduated at the prestigious Leipzig School of Visual Arts just a few months ago and is already known for her colourful work on paper. Gallery owner Ornis Althuis, who keeps a close eye on the contemporary art scene in Leipzig, is proud to present an extensive selection of Jacob’s newest drawings and collages.

Jacob fits in a tradition of artists who try to escape from academic conventions. By relocating the naïve and innocent state of childhood, artists rely on their intuition, without being distracted by knowledge. Leaving rules of realistic representation behind, Jacob creates spontaneous yet balanced compositions. She produces a wide scope of work, from abstract patterns to figurative situations, by combining crayon and pencil drawings with cut-up coloured paper. This artistic method results in attractive and colourful drawings and collages, all between 21 x 19 cm and 30 x 19 cm.

Jacob consciously doesn’t title her works, her vibrant collages and drawings stimulate free interpretation. From a female figure with a colourful striped coat to more abstract collages in which a floral pattern dominates, ‘In the Little Bay’ presents a variety of works that unmistakably shows Jacob’s recognisable handwriting. They share a cheerful expression and they all celebrate naivety, while at the same time revealing a certain tension. One who takes a closer look at the drawings and collages will find an underlying sense of melancholia or loneliness. Is it ever possible to fully rely on intuition and go back to our childhoods again? What would we find behind the colourful façade?