The Unseelie Court – Laura Burke

Chefas Projects is delighted to present The Unseelie Court, the second solo exhibition by Brooklyn-based artist Laura Burke. This captivating collection of drawings and paintings delves into the whimsical lives of spirits that inhabit a realm between the ether and earth. Here, human presence remains a mere whisper against the vibrant backdrop of Burke’s creations, where these spirits—dubbed “Gremlins”—embody our collective anxieties about the unknown.

Inspired by Scottish folklore, the title references the Unseelie Court, a faction of fairies known for their mischievous and malevolent nature, contrasting with the more benign Seelie Court. Through her enchanting portraits and scenes, Burke brings these Gremlins to life, inviting viewers into a fantastical world where joy and mischief intertwine. Each piece feels like a page from an imaginary storybook, showcasing these flower-headed beings as they dance under moonlight or practice ballet, infusing the works with a sense of delight and wonder.

Burke’s artistic style melds the rich tradition of Dutch master still lifes with the playful aesthetics reminiscent of British artist Mary Fedden. This exhibition invites us to explore the intricate lives of these delightful creatures, inviting curiosity and engagement.

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Laura Burke (b. 1992), originally from Portland, Oregon, earned her BFA in printmaking from the Pacific Northwest College of Art in 2015. Though her roots are in large-scale screen printing, she has since transitioned to drawing and painting. Her work has been recognized in prominent platforms such as Harper’s Bazaar and Juxtapoz, and exhibited in galleries across Portland, San Francisco, New York, and Art Taipei. Currently based in Brooklyn, Burke continues to captivate audiences with her imaginative visions.