Dan's Papers - May 29, 2009

It's obvious that Sag Harbor has a lot going for it. What's not so obvious is its growing number of art galleries housed in interesting, often historic venues like the ones we find on the North Fork. This time, the row houses intersecting Main and Madison Streets make perfect settings to show art. Sometimes the owner lives in the gallery itself (like The Winter Tree's Cuco Romley). Ditto for Bill Negron who years ago resided nearby in his printmaking workshop/gallery.

The newest Sag Harbor venue, Christy's Art Center, is a good example of a historic row house turned into an art space. It's a surprisingly big place with exposed brick walls and low ceilings. First time visitors might imagine they are in a castle during the Middle Ages, although we admit that's an exaggeration. The point is this: The space transports us to another intriguing time and place.

While such a feeling is attractive, we must also recognize that the ambience may diminish our capacity to concentrate on the art. Simply stated, there's too much to experience. This is not to suggest that the art itself is unworthy - most of the pieces are outstanding and insightful. The theme, "Botanicals," helps to connect the work, giving it focus, definition and a sense of fascinating contradiction.

Consider canvases like Jill Musnicki's "Red Tulips," small and simple, yet charming and powerful, or Andy Warhol's three screen prints, "KiKu," which is somewhat bigger and bolder, yet subtle and effective.

Contrasts continue with Daria Deshuk's "Sunflowers," which is minimal and abstract compared to Dan Rizzie's "Susan's Garden," a large work combining a whimsical image with surrounding, methodical text. The words are often difficult to distinguish, but there's something classical about the entire piece. Such an opposition allows us to interpret the garden's meaning which, like its creator (Susan), is both graceful and staunch.

Conversely, David Slater's "Mardi Gras" piece doesn't necessarily have oppositional elements, although its style is quite different from other pieces in the show. While the artist makes us work at defining the figures (including a big flower, thus the "Botanical" theme) we appreciate the environment evoked. Other artists like Miriam Douganis and Kryn Olson are equally expressive in establishing an evocative setting.

Across the street, Delaney Cooke Gallery is another new space (open since October 2008). It is small and inviting, in direct contrast to Christy's layout, with the conventional white walls as a background.

Dominick Cantasano's paintings and pastels are anything but subtle, their colorful geometric abstractions giving energy and life to the space. Even so, the images themselves suggest several things, including scenes from outer space. There are also hints of other artists' styles, like Michael Knigin's NASA series and Kenny Scharff's cartoon characters.

Regardless of their origins, the works are both playful and serious at once. A case in point is the image (" Hole in the Plane"), paying homage to a freak 1988 accident on Aloha Airlines.

Besides their varied contents and purposes, the paintings also convey diverse styles, like Pop Art and Surrealism. The combination seems to work well in this current exhibit.

"Botanicals" will be on view at Christy's until June 5. Call 631-725-0534. The current show at Delaney Cooke will be available until May 31. Call 631-324-3375for hours.