Art Review: Lady Erzulie by Natalia Lewandowska
Lady Erzulie - Acrylic on Canvas - 50x70 cm
Natalia Lewandowska's painting Lady Erzulie offers a captivating and bold exploration of love, beauty, and queer identity. Painted in 2023, this piece, created with acrylic on canvas, measures 50x70 cm and serves as a modern reimagining of Erzulie Freda, the Haitian spirit revered for her connection to love, sensuality, and protection of the queer community.
The inspiration behind the work is not only steeped in the rich history of Erzulie Freda, but also pays homage to contemporary culture. The vibrant colour palette of pinks, blues, and ethereal gradients is drawn from the rose and pink peppercorn syrup found in a signature cocktail named after the spirit. This drink, traditionally served in London to celebrate Pride month, adds a sense of celebration and indulgence to the painting. The fluidity of the shapes and subtle curves in the figure enhance the ethereal qualities of the subject, creating a sense of both fragility and strength.
Lewandowska, who holds a Master's degree from the Royal College of Art, has had a long history of creating striking works that blend fine art with commercial design. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to create art that balances traditional techniques with a contemporary aesthetic. Her work has graced notable spaces, including the Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts and the Victoria and Albert Museum, while her drawings have been etched into the very walls of London's King’s Cross station. Her recent exhibitions have continued to solidify her reputation as an artist whose work is as powerful as it is thought-provoking.
Lady Erzulie stands as a testament to Lewandowska’s ability to combine the personal with the universal. She expertly melds surrealism with portraiture, offering an arresting image of Erzulie Freda that speaks to the modern LGBTQ+ experience while referencing the spirit’s timeless power. The painting’s layers and fragmented forms evoke the idea of identity as fluid, ever-changing, and unbound by traditional definitions. This work is not just a portrait; it is a celebration of love in all its complexities, a theme that is at the heart of Pride month and beyond.
Lewandowska's work is not only aesthetically beautiful but also deeply resonant. With pieces collected by the National Museum of Poland and featured in prestigious publications like GQ Magazine and Aesthetica, she continues to explore themes of narrative and identity through an ever-evolving artistic lens. Lady Erzulie is a perfect example of her artistry: tender, defiant, and exquisitely modern.
Explore more about Natalia Lewandowska’s work and her ongoing projects through her exhibitions, publications, and collaborations. Lady Erzulie is a must-see for anyone passionate about contemporary art that speaks to both personal and collective identities.
The painting is available to buy at Saatchi Art