Thoughts from my studio about artwork; new pieces as well as those things that have have remained hidden in my flat file...

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Now Scheduling Studio Visits before my Residency

Sitting Still 97
Oil and Acrylic on Birch Panel
10"x8.5 - 2009

As you may know I'll be leaving for my 3 week artist residency on August 11. I am currently scheduling studio visits for the next two weeks before I leave, if there is an artwork you have been interested in, now is the time to come by... I am very motivated to make some space for the new work when I get back, and that could work in your favor, especially if you are interested in multiple works. I've got a ton of new small paintings from this year (such as the two in this post), but don't wait, they are disappearing into private (and public) collections and will be gone before you know it.
I hope to see you soon!

Sitting Still 83
Oil and Acrylic on Birch Panel
10"x8.5 - 2009

Monday, July 27, 2009

Last week to see Faraway Nearby

Ghost Music Study Number 9
Graphite on Polypropylene

This is the last week to see Faraway Nearby at the Greater Reston Arts Center - I've go three graphite drawings in the show - its worth the trip - go see it! You can preview pieces in the show here. (on view through July 31)

Roxy Paine on the Roof: Maelstrom (at the Metropolitan Museum)

"Maelstrom" by Roxy Paine
Stainless Steel, 48'x150'x15'

Roxy Paine's appropriately titled installation "Maelstrom" is currently on view at the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden at the Metropolitan Museum (read the press release here). I spent a half an hour with the sculpture enjoying a Brooklyn Summer Ale yesterday, in what really must be one of NYC's best outdoor sculpture spaces, somehow in all of my trips to the Met, I never went to the roof, what was I thinking? (It could be that I usually am here in the winter, when the space is closed)
The stainless steel vascular structure evokes circulatory systems, nervous systems, as well as roots. The play of reflective light and shadow within the space is quite intoxicating. I overheard plenty of regurgitation of the wall text from the people walking around, discussing the structure ("oh, I think the artist is adressing the struggle of industry and progress against nature"), and perhaps my thoughts about it are not to far from that, but I was struck by the feeling of life systems being solidified, frozen in time.
The pieces is actually secured to the roof space via the fire department's water valves on the roof, they are bolted directly to it, the little kid in me wanted to turn them on, to see if it would cause the structure to shake and moan under the pressure, but of course I didn't. The structure activates the space so well, it will be a shame when it is dismantled.
It really is a great piece, a must see, and it is on view until October 25, 2009. The Roof Garden is open daily, weather permitting.

"Maelstrom" by Roxy Paine
Stainless Steel, 48'x150'x15'

Last night my wife and I went to see Fuerza Bruta, an intriguing and entertaining abstract performance that happens above and around the spectator. A highly entertaining and thought-provoking hour - I would absolutely recommend it.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Stimulus Closing Reception

Don't miss this show! More info at the Nevin Kelly Gallery website.

Its been quiet here as the summer began with lots of family time. Somehow after that, I find myself renovating the studio bathroom as well as summer cleaning and storage solutions for the studio (although nothing works as well as buying artwork, hint hint, nudge nudge).

I hope to see you this Friday, July 10 from 5-8pm at the Nevin Kelly Gallery or email me for a studio visit.