If you’ve ever wondered what London’s social, spiritual, and architectural landscapes look like in a surrealist opera, Louis Pohl Koseda has your answer. The Royal Drawing School graduate and Christie’s Award-winning artist is ready to debut his solo exhibition, The Dawn of the Golden Age, from February 10 to February 14, 2025, at Christie’s London.
Through his intricate drawings, Pohl masterfully captures the chaos and beauty of London’s social tapestry. Expect a stunning mix of housing estates, financial hubs, and creative spaces, all interwoven with mythological and autobiographical elements. It’s London, but not as you know it.
Christie’s Award Winner Takes the Spotlight
Louis Pohl Koseda isn’t just any artist; he’s a storyteller with a pen and a vision. Raised in East London as a Hare Krishna devotee and trained in architecture, his work reflects a life shaped by contrasts. His drawings delve into London’s complexities, exploring themes like social inequality, moral dilemmas, and the invisible threads that hold communities together.
Inspired by Hindu and Christian texts, Pohl’s series culminates in a dramatic “Last Judgement,” where the spiritual meets the gritty reality of urban life. His work doesn’t just depict a city; it invites viewers to question and co-create the systems they inhabit.
Louis Pohl Koseda: An Artist Rooted in Social Change
Pohl’s journey to Christie’s is nothing short of inspiring. A graduate of the Royal Drawing School’s Drawing Year postgraduate programme, he honed his craft through rigorous observational drawing. The Christie’s Award provided the springboard for this exhibition, allowing him to channel his talent into a series that’s as thought-provoking as it is visually arresting.
Before turning to fine art, Pohl studied architecture at the University of Sheffield, where he founded the Foodhall Project Sheffield and the National Food Service. His socially driven projects earned him accolades like the RIBA-MacEwan Award and the Civic Trust Award. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped his artistic narrative, making his work a compelling blend of activism and artistry.
A Mythological London Unveiled
At the heart of The Dawn of the Golden Age lies Pohl’s exploration of myth and reality. His intricate line drawings don’t just capture cityscapes; they breathe life into them. Using mnemonic techniques and abstract figures, he builds a world where London’s physical spaces intersect with its spiritual and emotional dimensions.
Pohl himself describes the series as a fictional opera grounded in reality. “Through the prism of the imagination, we get closer to truth,” he explains. Each piece is a dialogue, an invitation for viewers to rethink the systems and spaces they navigate daily.
The Importance of Drawing in a Digital Age
Drawing might seem old school in today’s digital-first art world, but Pohl proves it’s anything but outdated. Catherine Goodman, Founding Artistic Director of the Royal Drawing School, champions this approach, emphasizing drawing as the foundation of artistic practice. “The achievements of Louis Pohl Koseda highlight the importance of drawing from life,” she notes.
This sentiment is echoed by Anthea Peers, President of Christie’s EMEA, who sees the Christie’s Award as an investment in future talent. “We’re proud to stage this exhibition and support the Royal Drawing School’s mission of providing exceptional education to all,” she says.
Why You Should Visit “The Dawn of the Golden Age”
This isn’t just another art exhibition. It’s a rare opportunity to see London through the eyes of an artist who’s lived and breathed its complexities. From the stark realities of housing inequality to the spiritual undertones of urban life, Pohl’s work is a mirror reflecting the city’s many faces.
And let’s not forget the venue. Christie’s London, a beacon of artistic excellence, provides the perfect backdrop for Pohl’s debut. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just someone curious about London’s hidden narratives, this exhibition promises to captivate.
Exhibition Details
Mark your calendars for this five-day showcase at Christie’s, located at 8 King Street, St James’s, London. Don’t miss the press view on February 11, where you can dive deeper into Pohl’s world before the crowds descend.
