heloisa pomfret at n’namdi center
”The Brain” A genius in our midst
“Her body of work includes painting, drawing, collages, ceramics, and cut-out installations. Her paintings involve the palimpsest process, where layers of paint are scratched to reveal further paint beneath. The canvas is cut and re-stitched, creating an abstract work on the margins of painting/drawing and sculpture. The imagery in the paintings, installation, and ceramics are inspired by the research on the physiology of the brain and the behavioral sciences. Heloisa Pomfret is inspired by the emotional brain. The physiology of the brain and the charting of mental states are used as inspiration and theoretical support to the imagery and constructs of her work.”
In the flagship series Glimpse, Pomfret scratches through layers of paint to reveal the surface beneath complemented by meticulous stiches philosophically mending what has been removed. In the exposed underpainting lies a mindful composition in forms and subtle colorations.
The exhibition transitions nicely to constructions where oil paint stiffens the burlap blending into the bamboo armature. Visible brushstrokes in an earthy palette extend to the highly irregular, spiny edges.
Clarity explores stoneware expressions with a feminine read originally intended to be installed in a circle. The pieces proved uncooperative therefore resigned to a linear configuration. Although produced in a sculptural medium, Pomfret’s scratched texture provides continuity.
Neatly organized on a tabletop—protected by a plexiglass cover which clouds the image a bit—these round intricate musings are collectively delightful incorporating figures, birds and trees in heavy blacks and sienna. Pomfret’s signature markings relate to the more formal offerings.
These works illustrate society’s investigation into the complexities of the human brain charting its emotional response to external and internal stimuli acknowledging mental health’s strong contribution to the physical body’s condition as well as one’s overall wellbeing.
On view at N'Namdi Center 52 E. Forest Detroit. No disclosed closing date
*images are mine
direct quote from gallery materials
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Great review of show!