tom livo at black box
Sweetly, From a Window
“My new paintings depict buildings in my ancestral neighborhoods, spanning from Dearborn to Detroit. These areas hold personal significance as they are where my great-grandmother and grandparents lived. Despite the passage of time, many of these buildings still stand, offering glimpses into the past. As I traverse these streets, I connect with the experiences of my ancestors. Additionally, I find American humor in the marketing of these establishments, which juxtaposes decay with grandiose promises. Through my paintings, I capture the essence of these places, preserving their stories like messages on walls and tunes from old windows, weaving the past into my present.” –Tom Livo
These loosely rendered compositions simultaneously communicate promise and despair. Wyoming Lunch is located in the middle of nowhere with no visible signs of any life. Only puddles are parked in the lot. The building’s windows harbor no reflection while the marquee’s vibrant blue and yellow belies the faded scene.
A whimsical double entendre, Lies (Liles) might once have been bustling with activity now appears utterly abandoned while the urban equivalent of the western tumbleweed listlessly drifts down the street. The brickwork is nicely varied in values creating texture and depth.
This composition could be from any industrial city. Because it’s non-descript, focus is drawn to form and color. The stepped purplish red dominates while the bent, rickety gate and background buildings supply symmetry. Attention to shadow and highlights provide critical dimension preventing the picture from going flat.
Set on a window ledge, this gem is afforded no label. Comparatively diminutive to the other works, this tiny piece manages to sparkle in its unusually joyous palette.
Landscapes most people drive past without a backward glance are elevated for reconsideration. Their previously significant existence is reduced to a shadowy memory, which for some was a time of hope and prosperity. It’s a reminder to viewers to live in the moment because nothing lasts but the happy sensations we experienced in these long-forgotten venues.
On view through May 5th at Black Box 1034 Monroe Dearborn
*images are mine
direct quote from gallery materials
I’m glad you’re here and thank you for reading. If you are able, please consider upgrading to a paid subscription. This will gain you access to every audio and video interview since inception and my undying gratitude for your support! Thank you!
SHOWS OPEN THIS WEEKEND
This makes me long for home! Thanks for keeping Thursdays my happy days when I see you've landed in my inbox.
tom livo charmed me with an oil painting of Warholak Tire at McGraw and Wyoming. I developed a learning center in an office trailer within view of the tire shop. I see the shop has changed hands. Any coverage planned for the draft week? https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/news/local/michigan/detroit/2023/11/02/family-business-to-switch-hands-after-92-years/71408260007/