Angela de la Cruz Upright: Repaired Bodies, Repaired Art — A Bold Look at Resilience

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Angela de la Cruz's art is a testament to resilience and the human spirit, a collection of broken and crumbling pieces that somehow still manage to stand tall. Her work, on display at Birmingham's Ikon Gallery, is a powerful commentary on the human condition, particularly for those who have faced physical challenges. The artist's own experience with a stroke and the use of a wheelchair provides a unique perspective on the theme of repair and perseverance.

Why it matters

What makes de la Cruz's exhibition particularly compelling is the way she transforms broken objects into powerful statements. The crumpled canvases, the sculptures that seem on the verge of collapse, and the double upright piano all serve as metaphors for the human body's fragility and the determination to overcome it. The artist's use of found objects and unconventional materials adds to the sense of repair and resilience.

The details

One of the most striking aspects of the show is the double upright piano, a collaboration with the Birmingham Royal Ballet. The piano, a symbol of fragility and strength, is a powerful commentary on the human condition. It is a reminder that even when we are broken, we can still find a way to move forward and create something beautiful. However, the piano's inclusion in the exhibition also raises questions about the nature of art and its relationship to performance. While the piano serves as a sculpture, its inclusion in the show also feels like a performance in itself, a reminder of the human need to express and create, even in the face of adversity.

• The exhibition is currently on display at the Ikon Gallery in Birmingham.

What’s next

The exhibition at the Ikon Gallery is scheduled to run until June 2026, providing an opportunity for visitors to experience de la Cruz's thought-provoking and inspiring work.