Art Exhibitions

Current Exhibition: A Cage in Search of a Bird

Launching on September 16, 2024, “A Cage in Search of a Bird” by M.B. Dallocchio marks a poignant tribute in the centenary year of Kafka’s death. This online exhibition presents a transcendent exploration of Kafka's enigmatic existence through a series of profound and meticulously crafted portraits. Inviting viewers on a labyrinthine journey that mirrors Kafka's own literary odyssey, the collection captures the essence of his soul with an unparalleled sense of intimacy and intensity.

M.B. Dallocchio, who studied abroad in Prague after returning from the Iraq War as a soldier, has been deeply influenced by Kafka's writing and art since her teenage years and brings a unique perspective to this exhibition. Each digital portrait serves as a portal into the multifaceted psyche of one of the 20th century’s most influential writers, highlighting the tension between reality and dream, and the existential disintegration central to Kafka’s works. The artist's deep connection to Kafka is evident in the nuanced details and emotional depth of each piece.

The exhibition's title, “A Cage in Search of a Bird,” is drawn from Kafka's own words in The Zürau Aphorisms: "A cage went in search of a bird." This powerful quote encapsulates the essence of the human condition as portrayed in Kafka's literature. The cage represents the intricate web we weave through our decisions, choices that lead us down one path or another, often trapping us in our own constructs. The bird symbolizes the elusive quest for human connection, the yearning for meaningful relationships that transcend the confines of our self-imposed limitations. Or, do we get caught up in our own merciless obsessions?

The exhibition's atmosphere is meticulously designed to replicate the introspective solitude of Kafka's world. Viewers are enveloped in ambient chiaroscuro as they navigate through the series in a virtual gallery that sits high atop a hill, much like Kafka's "The Castle." Each portrait is designed with intricate textural nuances and a palette that echoes the creative and noir sensibilities of Kafka's universe. Throughout the course of the online exhibition, certain pieces will appear and then disappear - perhaps for good?

M.B. Dallocchio’s artistry transcends mere representation, offering a visual dialectic that engages with Kafka's philosophical inquiries and existential dilemmas. Her profound understanding of Kafka’s themes—gained from years of studying his work and living in the very city that shaped his thoughts—lends an authenticity that enriches the viewer's experience. This online format allows for a personal and uninterrupted engagement with the artwork, making it accessible to a global audience.

“A Cage in Search of a Bird” is more than an exhibition; it is a pilgrimage into the heart of Kafka's existential theatre. Dallocchio’s exceptional portraits serve as both an artistic and intellectual endeavor, inviting viewers to reflect on the intersections of identity, isolation, and the human condition. As an artist, Dallocchio aims to capture not just the likeness of Kafka, but the essence of his absurdist musings and the relentless quest for meaning that permeated his life and work. This exhibition, launched in such a significant year, promises to be a landmark event celebrating the profound connection between visual art and literary genius.

Past Exhibitions & Events

  • Lavoro Sull’Ombra | Florence (2023-2024)

  • Desert Dreams | Rimaggio, Tuscany (2023-2024)

  • Nocturnal Confessions | Florence (2022-2023)

  • In the Desert | Florence (2022)

  • Koffee with Kafka | London (2021-2022)

  • The Art of War: Transforming Trauma into Inspiration | Washington, DC (2021)

  • Warrior Writers 1st Annual Virtual Art Exhibition | New York (2021)

  • London Lighthouse Gallery | London (2021)

  • Fuetsan Famalao’an: A Journey Through Chamorro Matriarchy Virtual Exhibit | London (2021)

  • Global Women Veterans Exhibit @ The Beverly Hills Marriott | Beverly Hills (2019)

  • Decolonizing the Arts @ UCCS | Colorado Springs (2019)

  • "The Desert Warrior" Reading & Book Signing @ Janco Books | Las Vegas (2018)

  • No Borders: A Benefit Exhibition to Support the ACLU & IRAP @ Ground Floor Gallery | Brooklyn (2017)

  • Soldiers Period Panel Discussion @ Veterans Film Festival, SF Library | San Francisco (2016)

  • Lioness Screening @ Portland State University | Portland (2016)

  • Decolonizing the Prison and Military-Industrial Complex: A Client-Centered Approach @ Soros Justice Fellowship Conference | Phoenix (2016)

  • War Comes Home @ Cal Humanities | San Diego (2014)

  • WAR: A Night of Art, Poetry, Peace, and Healing: Creative works by war veterans and war refugees | San Diego (2014)

  • North Park Festival of Arts Exhibition | San Diego (2014)

  • Veteran Art Show @Swarthy’s | Pasadena (2014)

  • Encompassing Diversity Through Art @ AmeriCorps | San Diego (2014)

  • Made in America Trade Show @ The DoubleTree | Danvers, Massachusetts (2013)

  • Lioness Screening @ Hyatt Place | Las Vegas (2013)

  • The Art and Soul of Combat Veterans @ The Commonwealth Club | San Francisco (2013)

  • YELP 89XXXhibition @ Photo Bang Bang Gallery | Las Vegas (2013)

  • ART4NF Charity Art Auction @ The District | Henderson (2013)

  • MARVEL Exhibition @ The Act, Palazzo Hotel & Casino | Las Vegas (2013)

  • SHOUT! Art by Women Veterans @ San Francisco Women’s Building | San Francisco (2012)

  • Art auction to benefit Calpolli Teoxicalli | Tucson (2011)

  • Los Veteranos of Arizona Exhibit @ Xico Galeria | Chandler, Arizona (2011)

  • Los Veteranos de Arizona Gala @ Talking Stick Resort | Scottsdale, Arizona (2011)

  • Exhibition @ Solar Culture Gallery | Tucson (2011-2012)

  • Mirror Myself: A Self Portrait @ Industria Studios | Tucson (2011)

  • Los Veteranos de Arizona @ Xico Galeria | Chandler, Arizona (2010)

  • Lioness Screening @ Maysles Institute & Theater | New York (2010)

  • Quixote in Ramadi @ Smith College | Northampton, Massachusetts (2009)

  • Lioness Screening @ Cinema Paradiso | Fort Lauderdale (2009)