jack craig at david klein gallery
Anteroom
“The show's title, Anteroom, references an older archetype - the room before the room - a place of transition, limbo, and waiting. Its ambiguity and beforeness leave undefined a proto space - a place for before or ‘ante‘ objects spawned from a primordial mud of proto processes”. - Jack Craig
Craig’s works take on the quality of evolutionary missteps, in his words “nature’s first adventurous tests of the world for new solutions.” Borrowing from unlikely corners of the industrial landscape, Craig deals in what he refers to as “raw, low to the ground methodologies intended to test, reset, and reinvent.” Craig originally worked in electro physics; now he acts in full technological reversal in a “back to the future” approach to object making.”
All that glitters are organic bronze drips organized into an étagère that reads like a manufactured coral reef nursery illustrating measured possibilities. This is not the family heirloom referred to simply as a whatnot, rejecting distracting tchotchkes.
The elegant tectonic table and chairs’ construction represents both shifts in the earth’s plates as well as perspective on designing living spaces. Wrought metal contrasts with soft, grey upholstered seating which is surprisingly comfy. The show’s signature bronze collects in the cracks and edges warming the cool of the steel.
Craig transitions to nickel producing a complementary mirror harmonious to his transcendental décor. Shadows cast by the lacey patterning adds intriguing dimension. One can enjoy this piece for its aesthetics while checking their makeup before dashing out the door.
In addition to the monochromatic furnishings, Craig enthusiastically delves into playful color schemes in melted, molded carpet and PVC. While the more subdued of these offerings, close inspection reveals speckled variations folded together allowing earthy pink to visually react with vibrant blue greens.
This exhibition stands on its own but is also a great way to wrap Detroit Month of Design presenting pieces both decorative and functional while sparking imagination. For those with a discerning and adventurous palette, the combination of expression with scientific engineering makes any room, ante or present, uniquely inspiring.
On view through October 26th at David Klein Gallery 1520 Washington Blvd Detroit
*images are mine unless otherwise noted
direct quote from gallery materials
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Nice review Kim. Hope all is well with you. I miss seeing you.
Be well.