FIGURE
R Gallery at Arlene's
May 5, 2023, to May 27, 2023
Artist Reception: Friday,May 5, 2023,
from 4:30 to 5:30 pm
This group exhibition is a contemporary examination of the human figure. Bringing together fourteen works by three local artists who interpret the human form and how it relates to the world in which they exist. The exhibition reflects the gallery’s interest in putting into conversation contemporary pieces that grapple with pressing issues. Issues like the societal perception of the “bad girl”, our identity, and the sense of self and community. This is the first exhibition for the gallery specifically dedicated to the figure and its interpretation.
Raina Briggs’ work plays with the way intentionality and obscurity operate in tandem, especially in personhood. Features that identify a person are used as an anchor, and a testament to the true self. The people gradually become shrouded by color and texture that overwhelm the person, representing the complexity of identity and how much value we place on appearance. Lyndsay Grimes is a painter of various subject matters. She is most notable for a series of paintings of strong women, people who had made a stand for their beliefs/rights, and those who have been villainized by society. Ken Rutsky is a fine artist currently living in Troy, NY. As a lifelong creator, Rutsky’s paintings reflect his love of the region, particularly its streets and old architecture, and the people who live in the Region.