Dan's Papers - October 3, 2008

"East End Abstractions" at Spanierman Gallery, Setha Low & Susan Rockford at Walk Tall

While curator Arlene Bujese has characterized Spanierman's current show as going in "six directons," this critic would like to suggest that is only partly true. Frankly, there appears to be a similarity in each of the artist's work, much to the credit of both the works' creators and the curator. Such a commonality has to do with primitive sources and a feeling of archetypal images. It's a subtle pattern, to be sure, but then again, all good art should be subtle. For example, Carol Hunt's large canvases sweep and flow, their movements carrying us to distant worlds, putting us in the center of great vistas of the past when life was just beginning. Josh Dayton continues his recurring structures of forms that recall ancient bones: forming, breathing, disintegrating and dying - to be reconstituted once again. His vibrant blues and oranges present a different spectrum, however, from previous works. It's a sign that life outweighs death.

In "Poja," by Darlene Charneco juxtaposes the primitive surfaces of the earth with modern technology featuring metal (nails) to make a social statement. At first, Jonathan Thomas' sculptures strictly derive from ancient Celtic stones, yet their ropes and wood also contribute a contemporary vs. archaic juxtaposition. Pieces by Fulvio Massi combine drawing material like ink and pastel with acrylic to create fascinating images of the old and new.

One such image recalls looking down into an ancient chasm to discover the mystery of the universe. Finally, there are sculptures by Hans Van De Bovenkamp whose work resembles archetypal structures like ancient portals ("Sag Portal #6") or a temple from a long time ago. De Bovenkamp's varied compositions, from vertical to horizontal shapes, give credence to his enduring forms and to his counterbalancing of vulnerability and strength.

Regardless of similar thematic considerations, each artist uses diverse materials and methods, a particularly strong aspect of the exhibit.

The present show at East Hampton's Walk Tall Gallery shares some elements with the Spanierman exhibit. Consider Susan Rockford's paintings (appropriately named "Elemental Series") that capture the sense of the primitive past. Another work, "Primitif," uses gauze on linen in a refreshing way, giving depth and substance to human existence.

Ceramics by Setha Low seem to fit right in with Rockford's paintings although their meanings may be different. Low's torsos are arresting because of opposition: the beautifully curved forms and the nails or braids which restrict them. The political statement is obvious but well-executed and one that can't be repeated too many times. What's especially intriguing is the signification of the female torso. For example, Kathleen Bifulco's torsos are playful, perhaps used to draw attention to the corset and its connotations. Perhaps other artists find that part of the female body the most sensual. In Low's case, the torso is the most vulnerable.

"East End Abstractions" will be on view at Spainierman Gallery until Oct. 27. Ms, Low's and Ms. Rockford's works will be at Walk Talk Gallery until Oct. 6.

Correction: In last week's Art Commentary, the work shown was erroneously attributed to Lee Krasner.