The Light Side by Moogly

Morton Contemporary Gallery is proud to host the American debut exhibition of the French humorist painter, MOOGLY. Titled, THE LIGHT SIDE, this abundantly joyful show radiates not just levity and humor, but a profound depth worth exploring. Every painting contains semi-abstract portraits of animals—each bearing complex, human-like expressions with unexpected emotional depth. Using acrylic, lacquer, and resin, the artist positions these mostly monochrome figures against luminous, airy backgrounds, allowing their eyes—made from metal machine washers—to do the talking. The artist fondly refers to his characters as ‘HUMANIMALS’. Their expressions run the gamut from optimism, curiosity and joy, to perplexity, apathy and a devilishness.

From the Artist: “In these troubled times, darkened by the world’s negative energies, this bright and humorous series is an invitation to lightness, joy, and freedom. In our time-sensitive, overloaded lives—where we often lack time—the paintings present over-oxygenated subjects, far from urban density, in search of calm. Human presence however hasn’t completely disappeared, as the subjects have happily unearthed multiple custom-made accessories and outfits. Many of my animals where UV-protected sunglasses, allowing my subjects to enjoy the colorful, light-filled skies in which they are placed. These are freeze-frames of real-life scenes, where the subjects—oozing with life—breathe energy into stories that invite the viewer to imagine. Alone or in groups, the energies of my animals are palpable. They are designed to entertain the viewer, create mirror effects, invite connection, and contribute to the joy of everyday life—sometimes even taking on a therapeutic role.” Moogly

Moogly is an environmentalist, a vegan, and a committed animal rights activist. Deeply pained by the loss of animal populations as a result of environmental degradation, Moogly uses his artwork as a tool of hope to foster new connections between people and the animals they have so carelessly destroyed. He does this by imbuing his characters with a hilarity that the viewer can’t help but love. At his core, Moogly wants people to care for their natural world, and he believes his art is one small way he can foster more love from humans for the beautiful natural world we live in.

 Each character—whether a solitary figure or part of a dynamic group—is a freeze-frame: a breathing, feeling, visually textured moment meant to entertain, soothe, and spark connection. Moogly describes his paintings as “mirror effects” for the viewer—both therapeutic and joyful. Moogly’s ‘Humanimals’ are a vibrant new chapter in his artistic practice—one filled with unfiltered emotion, social and ecological commentary, and sharp satirical humor. Against the backdrop of a world burdened by conflict, technology overload, and societal pressure, this exhibition offers a moment of release—an invitation to “take a walk on the light side.” His characters float in wide open skies, far from the density of urban life. The only hints of the human world are the whimsical outfits and accessories they wear. “The subjects don’t interest me so much,” Moogly explains. “They are pretexts to bring out something of their personalities that everyone can relate to.” These new paintings radiate lightness, offering playful clarity in contrast to today’s darker realities.

 Moogly was inspired from an early age by his grandfather, an illustrator, who always encouraged him to draw. The famous illustrator Ralph Steadman and painter Jackson Pollock have also been lifelong influences on the artist’s totally unique and wildly refreshing style.  Moogly is in private and public collections throughout the world.