Alexander Couwenberg
dal 9/9/2005 al 15/10/2005
Segnalato da
9/9/2005
Alexander Couwenberg
Ruth Bachofner Gallery, Santa Monica
Tussenruimte. The artist depicts his interpretations of cityscape aerial views through a series of abstract paintings. He shows the actual process of his art making by revealing his initial steps of shape configuration and paint application, as well as each of the numerous painterly steps and changes he makes during the process.
Tussenruimte
In his fifth solo exhibition at Ruth Bachofner Gallery, Alexander Couwenberg
depicts his interpretations of cityscape aerial views through a series of
abstract paintings. He shows the actual process of his art making by
revealing his initial steps of shape configuration and paint application, as
well as each of the numerous painterly steps and changes he makes during the
process.
Painted Mylar is Couwenberg¹s tool of choice; the artist applies various
rectangular, hard edged shapes of the material onto canvas to convey the
aerial view conceptually. The artist notes that the Mylar¹s "surface
quality...is extremely smooth and conducive to the painting process. When
the paint is pulled across this surface, the slick field of Mylar allows it
to skip and slide in a manner that reveals the texture and paint underneath,
leaving behind certain marks that are consistent with the natural surface of
land."
A grid installation in the exhibition unites numerous works as one. The
pieces are created individually, with their own flow and composition, just
as buildings within a cityscape are developed singularly (usually) and of a
particular architectural style. Many of the paintings have elements similar
to that of its neighbor, and random color, shape and line connections create
an energetic whole. Works with no apparent similarities create tension
within the group, yet remain equally integral to the success of the whole.
Couwenberg¹s new work has an off-balanced energy that initially surprises
the viewer, yet, in time, anticipation gives way to understanding, and the
ease of familiarity gives way to contentment. As the artist knowingly
states, "Its similar to the experience of reading a map when lost and then
the surprise of suddenly knowing where you are going."
Image. Alexander Couwenberg, "van boven 06", 2005, mylar & acrylic on canvas, 24' x
24".
Reception: Saturday, September 10, 5:00 - 7:00pm
Ruth Bachofner Gallery
2525 Michigan Avenue #G2 - Santa Monica, CA 90404
Gallery hours, Tuesday  Saturday 10:00am  5:30pm