Anticipating the collapse of modernity they set out to create an alternative lifestyle free of all constraints – a community based of sharing resources and deepened connection with nature. Veganism, nudism, matriarchy, spirituality; no idea what was too bold for these unconventional minds.

This utopia of freedom and emancipation attracted some of the most preeminent artists and intellectuals of the 20th century. Frederick Nietzsche, Paul Klee, Rudolf Steiner, Carl Gustav Jung, these are but a few of the many seduced by this idea of a different truth, a truer truth.

This hill magnetic in both geological and metaphorical senses, in turn attracted Eric Massholder. However the series of paintings to which Monte Veritá lends its name reveals a somewhat more sombre landscape than its utopian alter ego. Expressive brushstrokes, strong lines, dark shades, bold colour, nothing in these images suggests a peaceful paradise.

Instead we are presented with an almost nightmarish vision of a world in turmoil. Sometimes appearing in the form of a spilled ice cream cone, this hill of truth hints at the broken illusions and the soured disappointment left in the wake of the previous utopias’ failures. Nevertheless, hope survives and a glimmer of dawn seems to shine on this unfinished universe. From the ashes of broken dreams, Monte Veritá renews the desire for change that inspired the 19th century pioneers to move mountains.