Gianluca Cosci will defend his doctoral research in the Arts, titled

“The Denied Image: Art interventions between iconoclasm and institutional critique”.

Gianluca Cosci investigates iconoclasm as a way to explore, question and analyze the power of images in the context of Institutional Critique and Appropriation Art discourses. His research focuses on different interpretations of iconoclasm regarding the concept of visual obliteration using existing artworks as palimpsests but also in the creation of ex-novo paintings and photographs.

The artist's research examines the auratic power of images subjected to iconoclastic interventions and how the diminished visual perception of images can be a stimulus to imagination and contemplation.

His eclectic work converges towards the dichotomy between the visible and invisible, perception and imagination. In his investigations, Gianluca Cosci aims to convey the concept of the 'hidden' by partially veiling images. In doing so, the artist examines the enigma of images and how their fascination can be amplified when they are concealed or erased. Ultimately, visual negation can function as a means for the viewer to adhere to the Duchampian principle of actively engaging in the interpretation and finalization of the work of art, as a crucial and supreme contribution to the artistic experience.

 The members of the examination committee are:

• Vice dean research dr. Veerle Van der Sluys (chairman, LUCA School of Arts / KU Leuven)
• Dr. Peter De Graeve (supervisor, LUCA School of Arts / KU Leuven)
• Dr. Bart Geerts (co-supervisor, LUCA School of Arts / KU Leuven)
• Prof. dr. Barbara Baert (KU Leuven)
• Dr. Nicola Setari (LUCA School of Arts / KU Leuven)
• Miquel Mont (painter)

The doctoral defense will take place on Monday December 18th at 3 P.M. at Queens Gallery, Koninginnelaan 266 Avenue de la Reine, 1020 Brussels.

 From 7 P.M., you are invited to a reception. You can attend the defense by purchasing a free ticket.