the writing is on the wall, and it doesn't take a prophet to see it. The freshly painted room at Antenna, a new gallery in the ninth ward, has already been tagged. The inaugural show at the non-profit space pairs visual artists with word artists - painter Brad Benischek with writer Berman Black, and painter Shawn Hall with poet Brad Elliot- to interesting effect. Brad B and Mr. Black have constructed a subdued but stunning mural that withstands prolonged viewing at different distances. Race cars and building materials overlay large and small text that relate what seem to be personal stories of the rebuilding. It all comes together with conviction and necessity, remarkable esp considering the organic, improvisational process with no white-out to be seen.
Shawn and Brad E's wall is equally beautiful but with a different feel altogether. Though the words and images appear to have been created separately, their installation brings it together. The text is seductively rendered, belying the intent of the words. Shawn's small paintings of alchemically inspired imagery elude to possible connections rather than illuminating the text.
Antenna is a welcome addition to the burgeoning art activities in the ninth ward, and this show bodes well for future offerings. The show is up sat & sun, noon -5pm, until May 17th, and Brad Benischek and Shawn Hall will both be doing talks about the work at some point soon.
Antenna, 3161 Burgundy St.
-ds
1 comment:
I just went to see the show again (because it is that good), and Shawn Hall has continued to embellish her installation. Her paintings now sprout beautiful flowers that emit a pungent odor, for the words floating like clouds of acrid pollen are fleurs du mal pureed by google's search engine. Brad has also added some postcards from a radioactive summer camp in the back.
- ds
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