Art Commentary

Leri at Marcelle

by Marion Wolberg Weiss

"?Que pasa, Pablo?" Work by Dennis Leri, at Marcelle Gallery

While Dennis Leri's new works at Peter Marcelle Contemporary Gallery in Southampton is composed of three series, only one is titled "Urban Cadence." But the entire exhibit could be described similarly. The most dramatic series is called "50s Optimism" and celebrates the era of the car. The subject is perfect for the present time, reminding us that during the 1950s particularly, the car was a commodity that would live forever. We know differently now.

Judging from some films paying homage to the car, the term "Urban Cadence" would certainly apply. Consider American Graffiti and Rebel Without a Cause, two movies that defined teen culture in terms of the automobile's energy and independence in Los Angeles.

In the 1950s, the car invaded other cultures, like Cuba, remaining an icon to this day. During that period, it also represented power, status and sexual appeal in the commercial market place, a role that it currently does not hold.

For artist Leri, cars played multiple roles, his loyalty for his Chevy (or was it a Ford) being a prime example. The car series attempts to recapture the joy and enthusiasm unique to the period, and unique to Leri's life, no doubt.

We can see why. He uses the original luscious colors of many of the decade's cars, like meadow green, coral and turquoise, placing aluminum sheeting on the surface to symbolize the era's "new metal." What's intriguing about the configurations are the abstract patterns that emerge. Such patterns suggest all sorts of images and figures, which seem spontaneously created. The result: some of the freshest abstractions we've seen in a long time.

Leri's two other series are equally fresh. His metal vertical abstractions recall past works with similar material but different themes. This time, the patterns form rhythms and motion that mirror musical notes or city skyscrapers. Or just about anything that strikes the spectator.

Leri's last series, titled "Relationships," is a group of sculptures suggesting interpersonal communication between shapes, forms, angles and negative space. It's a point made in "Art Commentary" two weeks ago, describing pieces by Jack Stone. Leri's work is entirely different - he doesn't call attention to hardedge abstraction. His works contain circles, lines and pathways that create a peaceful ambience, although the sculptures are mostly vertical forms.

Leri has also produced a collection of inanimate objects where he evokes animation. Come to think of it, that could apply to all three series.

Dennis Leri's exhibit will be on view at Peter Marcell Conemporary Gallery in Southampton until Sept. 24. Call 631- 204-9704 for hours.

Corrections: In the Sept. 4 issue, the photo was misappropriated. The sculptor is Jack Stone.

In the September 11 issue, the dress featured was by Nicole Miller, not Vera Wang.

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