Works on Paper at Davidson Contemporary

Saturday, 02 September 2006 11:28

Seattle , WA - Davidson Contemporary presents Works on Paper featuring five contemporary artists whose works address imaginary narratives and scenes.  The show also draws attention to the manipulation of commonplace images and text, which reveal inventive perspectives on authenticity and language.  The works explore the idea of fiction conceptually while focusing attention on artists who all employ paper as a medium.

Dawn Cerny, a 2006 Neddy Award nominee, employs printmaking and drawing techniques to produce surreal accounts and fantastical tales.  Cerny’s technical skills are emphasized in her intricate renderings of people and objects.  The collision of various eras and histories often produce humorous and witty moments.

Tim Cross creates lush compositions, which subtly reference the landscape.  Filled with organic elements, machinery, and blotches of fiery colors, the depictions convey dreamlike worlds.  Watercolor and pen are utilized in bold and striking ways through the large patches of unrestrained paint to the meticulous handling of petite objects.

Marc Dombrosky collects found notes and carefully embroiders over them.  An everyday quality resides in the grocery lists, random annotations, and scribbles.  The convergence of high and low art is present in the handling of materials.  In addition, the idea of genuine and replicated imagery becomes highlighted.

Kristen Ramirez utilizes language and graphic dynamism of American road signs from the 1950s.  Her work, a skillful combination of lines, curves, and color, has a decided abstract edge.  The familiar imagery and sense of nostalgia, mixed with her own brushwork, create a re-invented form of representation.