Grotesque Meets Sublime in Christian Van Minnen’s ‘Metanoia’

Summary

• Christian Rex van Minnen’s Metanoia exhibition explores themes of transformation and the grotesque
• Notable works include “Still Life with Octopus in Vase and Upside Down Figure,” blending classical still‑life with surreal distortions
• On view at NANZUKA UNDERGROUND until February 21, 2026

Christian Rex van Minnen’s solo exhibition Metanoia at NANZUKA UNDERGROUND marks his second major presentation with the gallery following his 2021 debut. Known for his surreal and unsettling imagery, van Minnen introduces new works that continue his exploration of psychological transformation, corporeality and the grotesque.

This exhibition represents a significant point in the artist’s career, as indicated by the title Metanoia, which refers to a fundamental change in mind or a spiritual conversion. Based in Santa Cruz, California, van Minnen is renowned for his unique fusion of 17th-century Baroque oil techniques – inspired by masters such as Rembrandt and Rachel Ruysch – with 20th-century Surrealism and modern American underground culture.

The exhibition features 15 new oil paintings that showcase a dual approach to his craft: his signature grotesque surrealism and a new series he calls “Straightforward” still lifes. Notable large-scale works include “Still Life with Snake in Vase and Upside Down Figure” and “Still Life with Octopus in Vase and Upside Down Figure,” which exemplify his ability to blend majestic floral arrangements with jarring, visceral elements like octopuses and snakes. In contrast, his more classical still lifes, such as “Still Life with Grapes, Melon, and Apples,” reflect a newfound desire to celebrate nature and creation directly, rather than deconstructing or subverting traditional forms as he has done in the past.

The paintings invite viewers to reflect on whether to return to the comfort of tradition or continue blindly toward novelty, all while being immersed in a visual language that transcends the boundaries between the grotesque and the sublime. Metanoia will be on view at NANZUKA UNDERGROUND in Tokyo until February 21, 2026.