Eesti kunsti oksjonid

Collage, acrylic. 2006.
Signature: M. NUKKE ´06 / “VIOLINA“ KOLLAAZH, AKRÜÜL (collage acrylpainting) MALL NUKKE 2006

Mall Nukke (b. 1964), the leading Estonian neo-pop painter, has a range of works ranging from ironic observations of superstars to ambiguous existentialist compositions. The femme fatale’s gaze and vampire-like beauty are complemented by a violin resting on her shoulder, which in turn can be interpreted as a feminine symbol in Freudianism. Incidentally, the violin is also called the queen of instruments.

In this way, Nukke creates an audio dimension in the painting, which she also expresses with flowing hair on a musical instrument – just as music flows along a line of notes. In the painting, Nukke presents the handcuffs as an allegory of bondage – music, which inspires and gives wings, also chains itself – sucks you in with its magic and never lets you go.

In this way, Nukke presents a game to the viewer – nothing actually corresponds to the impression created. Does it love or does it chain? Everything is an illusion. The background, in turn, creates an association with a much-loved decorative motif in Art Nouveau symbolism. In short – decadence in its most undisguised form!

With this piece, we celebrate the 60th birthday of Mall Nukke this year.

Text: Harry Liivrand, Mall Nukke