While the sense of historical necessity that once attended so many new
developments in abstract art has unquestionably loosened its grip,
nevertheless Abstraction in one form or another, still commands the
allegiance of a great many of today's artists.
This is certainly true of each of the 13 artists included in this
exhibition. Representing a broad generational spectrum, what binds them
together is a deeply felt committment to a kind of pictorial dialectic in
which the artist's hand plays an equal role to the artist' eye, coupled with
a stubborn refusal to relinquish their claim on the freedom to exploit the
bravura properties of the painterly medium in the realization of aesthetic
goals. As we examine their work individually and collectively, we become
aware of being in the presence of something important in the broader
painting enterprise. Of what does that importance consist? Primarily, I
should say, of the feeling their work gives us that in abstract painting, no
matter the form it now may take in its range of imagery, technique and
ambition, that we are in touch with something individual and deeply felt,
with something personally explored, that is capable of offering some
thought-provoking insights into the aesthetic imperatives of the present
moment.
The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public as well as to
all Five College students, faculty, and staff. Regular Gallery hours are:
Mon - Fri: 11
am - 4 pm and Sun: 1
pm - 4 pm For
further information, contact gallery director
Trevor Richardson, at Tel. 413-
545-0976