general rules do not apply at m contemporary art
Abstract by definition is an idea with no physical or concrete existence, to be pulled away or detached from reality. In art, abstraction attempts to convey the essence of a subject in its pure, simplified form through gestures, shapes, scale and color. Indeed, conventional confines of painting are not displayed in this exhibition, but in order for abstraction to be successful, the rules of composition—in any category—must be applied.
Senghor Reid transforms his recognizable language from his signature cool ripples into a warm glow. Heavily layered brushwork concentrates toward the center where amassing energy radiates outward in golden, rosy rays. A handful of well-placed deep turquoise marks finish the composition.
Lauren Harrington’s background in printmaking is evidenced in the intricate patterning of her symmetrical paintings. The pyramid insert optically rolls toward its edges sitting on top of the margins’ larger motifs. Subtle complementary colors with a splash of incandescence amplify the effect.
Confident, expressive strokes cluster toward the middle of each canvas. Zach Thompson employs familiar subjects and text offering clues to his subversive narrative. Wylie is just trying to make a living like everyone else. Why is Pig Pen so dirty all the time?
On the far wall is a spiritual reprieve in Matt Eaton’s Celestial Blanket series. This iteration is noticeably absent of the phosphorescent palette often enlisted by this painter. Random, floating circles activate negative space without impeding the piece’s serenity.
The Impressionists’ courage to break from traditional representative renderings fostered a multitude of artistic styles including modern abstract painting which took the 1950s New York art scene by storm. In a TikTok attention span world where what happened an hour ago is old news, abstract painting can seem antiquated. I submit the genre has yet to be fully mined. A painter has to first master the rules before breaking them and getting away with it. These seasoned artists experiment with rhythm, color, line and use of space executed in their unique voice demonstrating the continued evolution of a class of painting which will never be completely tamed.
Participating Artists: Matt Eaton, Senghor Reid, Jaime Pattinson, Lauren Harrington, Zach Thompson, Dino Valdez, Malt.
On view through June at M Contemporary Art 205 E Nine Mile Ferndale
*images are mine unless otherwise noted
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