retreat volume I: falopapas

july 29th- august 12th

at the sagamore hotel

1671 collins ave, miami beach, fl

"Retreat Volume I" at the renowned Sagamore hotel is an integral part of homework's Summer Programming in 2023, immediately following our Summer School group show in Little River. This exhibition continues to explore the intrinsic connection between rest, leisure, and reflection, and how they play pivotal roles in human growth and evolution.

The featured artist, Néstor Augusto Turallas, better known as Falopapas, is originally from La Plata, Argentina, and currently based in Miami. Working in a variety of mediums, he is well known in Miami for his stunning murals. In "Retreat Volume I," his compelling paintings take center stage, inviting viewers on a journey through mesmerizing large black and white sketch paintings set against soft pastel backdrops, adorned with captivating neon accents. Through Falopapas' distinct visual language, he skillfully captures the essence of stillness, reflection, and the delicate interplay between light and shadow, intriguingly incorporating a hint of controlled chaos within.

Drawing inspiration from Friedrich Nietzsche's quote, "You must have chaos within you to give birth to a dancing star," the exhibition prompts viewers to embrace moments of introspection where chaos and order coexist harmoniously. It acknowledges the significance of regrouping after navigating life's complexities—a precious opportunity to step back, breathe, and replenish one's spirit.

Falopapas’ works cleverly mix a pop aesthetic with a street-art feel. His murals and paintings show artistic leanings towards concepts found in TV, comics and disruptive photography of the 1960s, and are in line with the iconography of Latin American pop culture. The exhibition space within the Sagamore has been meticulously curated to engender an ambiance of tranquility, creating a space for contemplation, rejuvenation, and personal evolution, while simultaneously evoking feelings of freedom and a youthful spirit.

The words of Lao Tzu, "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished," also resonate through "Retreat Volume I." Set against Miami's picturesque beachfront, the exhibition's focus on nature's rejuvenating rhythms is heightened by the artworks in the gallery and the poolside mural.

"Retreat Volume I," featuring Falopapas' evocative expression, weaves a captivating narrative that celebrates the interconnectedness of rest, reflection, and leisure as catalysts for personal growth. It aims to find solace amidst the chaos of existence, encouraging harmony and evolution in the embrace of tranquility and letting go.

-curated by homework.