Franklin 54 Gallery + Projects

SHARON BARTEL-CLEMENTS: The Nature of Things

2011-11-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

A solo exhibition of new paintings & sculptural objects
November 8th - December 17th
Reception: Nov. 10th, 6-8p

In the Project Space:
ELISA PRITZKER
Naturalia
Nov. 10th-17th, in conjunction with Latin American Cultural Week
Franklin 54 Gallery is a proud participant in the 6th Annual Latin American Cultural Week, produced by PAMAR
www.lacw.net for more info

EDWARD EVANS: new abstract paintings

2011-09-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Circling the Sun, acrylic on linen, 58x80"

September 20th - October 29th, 2011

Opening Reception: September 22nd, 6-8p

SUMMER HOURS

2011-06-28T18:33:00.000-07:00

The gallery will be open by appointment only from June 28 - Sept. 13th

"Spreading Out", acrylic on linen by Edward Evans

We will be open & participating in the Chelsea Art Walk on July 28th, 5-8pm with:
Group Exhibition of selected gallery artists
Laura Duggan
Edward Evans
AJ Nadel
Elisa Pritzker
Alicia Rothman
Marlene Rye
Eleanor Winters
www.artwalkchelsea.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK – Please join us on Thursday, July 28, 2011 from 5 to 8 p.m. for the second annual Chelsea Art Walk, a cooperative event organized by the neighborhood's galleries and art institutions.

Last year the free, self-guided, public event attracted hundreds of residents and visitors to explore the dynamic arts community offered by internationally acclaimed galleries. Chelsea Art Walk generated buzz and traffic to Chelsea on an otherwise quiet summer evening.

More than 125 galleries and institutions participating in Chelsea Art Walk 2011 will be open for extended hours, artist talks, receptions, and other special events to showcase the vibrancy of the summer arts scene in Chelsea, while local sponsors will offer food and drink specials throughout the evening. Visitors will also be able to enjoy the newly opened second section of the High Line, which extends through Chelsea from 14th Street to 30th Street.

A venue map will be provided by the M Chelsea art map, published by the M magazine, online at intheArtworld.com.The Exhibitionist iPhone/iPad app, available for free download through iTunes, will map out participating locations, display photos of the exhibitions, and highlight special events.

Live performances: • Monya Rowe Gallery: Autodrone plays dark atmospheric art punk, for fans of shoegaze, industrial, post punk, and all music which surprises, delights, wounds and heals the human spirit. – 7 p.m. • Freight + Volume: Genevieve White performs in conjunction with the exhibition "Migration" – 7 p.m. • RARE Gallery: An acoustic performance of "experimental pop sound" – 7 p.m.
Screenings: Horton Gallery: "Miroslav Tichý: Tarzan Retired," a film by Miroslav Tichý and Roman Buxbaum (ongoing)

Activities: • Porter / Contemporary: Visit a "A Portrait Apart" and have your own Polaroid portraits made • Bertrand Delacroix Gallery: Win a Marcel Duchamp portrait in a raffle to benefit the CUE Art Foundation • Pavel Zoubok Gallery: "Money ... what's it worth to you?" with Mark Wagner, who will cut up dollar bills for souvenirs • Meulensteen: Coolhaus Ice Cream Truck unveils their new Buckminster Fuller-inspired ice cream sandwich at the gallery's Buckminster Fuller exhibition  • Nicholas Robinson Gallery: Ping-pong

Artist/Curator Talks: • Margaret Thatcher Projects: gallery talk with Erin Brown, curator of "w h i t e - h o t" – 5:30 p.m. • BLANK SPACE: artist talk and reception – 6 p.m. • Fischbach Gallery: discussion of the exhibition "Shine" with guest artists and reception – 6 p.m. • Phoenix Gallery: Han Beck will talk about his work " Wearing a Brooch & Sharing the ideas" – 6:30 p.m. • Sputnik Gallery: artist talk with Sasha Maslov – 6:30 p.m. • 1500 Gallery: "An Overview of Contemporary Brazilian Photography," curatorial talk by Andrew S. Klug – 7 p.m. • Priska C. Juschka Fine Art: join artist Dannielle Tegeder for a tour the exhibition "Silver Bullet" – 7 p.m. • Alan Klotz Gallery: artist talk and book signing with Harvey Stein – 7:15 p.m.

Book events and special receptions at Gallery 307, ACA Galleries, De Buck Gallery, Churner & Churner, ClampArt, Asya Geisberg Gallery, Hasted Kraeutler, Jim Kempner Fine Art, Von Lintel Gallery, Lombard-Fried Projects, Flomenhaft Gallery, Claire Oliver Gallery, Praxis International Art, SOHO2O Chelsea Gallery, Sundaram Tagore Gallery, Vogt Gallery, Witzenhausen Gallery, Rick Wester Fine Art, and David Zwirner. For more information, visit www.artwalkchelsea.com/events.

For a complete list of exhibitions and events, visit www.artwalkchelsea.com or follow Chelsea Art Walk on Facebook at facebook.com/chelseaartwalk.
For media information, please contact Alyssa Menegat at alyssa@jenkinsjohnsongallery.com or Brendan Wattenberg at brendan@walthercollection.com.

A Book Signing & Reception

2011-06-20T17:57:00.000-07:00

"Exploring the Original West Village"
a new book by Alfred Pommer & Eleanor Winters

Join us for a book signing and reception:
Thursday June 23rd, 6-9pm in the gallery

"Abingdon Square", cover oil painting by Leendert van der Pool

About the authors:
Alfred Pommer is a New York City Licensed Guide who has been giving public and private walking tours focusing on history and architecture in New York City's diverse neighborhoods for over 20 years. A New York City native, he holds a degree in labor studies and retired in 1991 from the New York City Parks Department to devote himself to his tours full time. Since then he has been researching and improving each tour to bring his knowledge and stories to numerous groups, institutions and individuals who have embarked on his journeys around these Manhattan neighborhoods.
For more info visit Alfred's website: www.nycwalk.com

Eleanor Winters is a native of Brooklyn, NY who has been exploring New York City on foot for several decades. She is a commercial and fine artist specializing in calligraphy which she teaches in Europe and the United States. Eleanor lives half of the year in Brooklyn and the other half in Paris. Having authored 5 books on calligraphy, her collaboration with Alfred was a perfect fit. She holds a master's in art from New York University and is represented by Franklin 54 Gallery + Projects for her calligraphy quilt collage works.
For more about Eleanor visit her website: www.eleanorwinters.com

"Exploring the Original West Village" is published by The History Press, Charleston, SC
www.historypress.net

On view in the gallery:
Paintings, prints & photographs of the West Village by Sharon Florin, Alfred Pommer, Leendert van der Pool and Calligraphy Quilt Collages by author Eleanor Winters

LIGHT SOURCES: 2 VISIONS New Works by Leendert van der Pool & Ann Woodward

2011-05-14T11:52:00.001-07:00

Sunday Rest, Leendert van der Pool, oil on canvas

Sounding, Ann Woodward, watercolor, monoprint fragment, paper collage

May 10th to June 18th, 2011

Paintings by Leendert van der Pool
Collage/Monoprints by Ann Woodward

AJ Nadel & Guest Moderator Wolf Kahn in conversation

2011-04-07T11:34:00.000-07:00

"Exploring the Process" with artist AJ Nadel and Guest Moderator Wolf Kahn
Thursday April 14th @ 6:30p
Reception 6-8p

"Resting Marla", acrylic on canvas

AJ NADEL: a Solo Exhibition

2011-03-21T16:24:00.000-07:00

Sarah Withdrawn
charcoal, collage on paper

AJ NADEL
"Explored Relationships of Figurative Expressions"
Large drawings & paintings
March 25-April 30th, 2011
Reception: March 31st, 6-8p

Santeria by JAVA: a Special 3 Day Event

2011-02-11T06:27:00.000-08:00

"Madonna and Child", detail, found object assemblage

Exhibition & documentary film premier about the artist "Beauty in Everything" by Robert Horvath
Reception Feb. 11th, 6-9p

LOCAL ARTIST RECLAIMS TRASH ON NEW YORK STREETS FOR USE IN FINE ART EXHIBIT

Cuban-born artist, JAVA, creates body of work inspired by Santeria religion and his passion for recyclable material

New York, New York – January 25, 2011 - Franklin 54 Gallery + Projects presents: “Santeria”; a found object sculpture exhibit, showing from Saturday, February 12 to Sunday, February 13, 2011, 12-5PM, with an opening reception on Friday, February 11, 2011, 6-9PM in the West Chelsea Arts Building, while also premiering “Beauty in Everything”; a short documentary about the artist and his work, by Robert Horvath of DÉVA.

Russian-born filmmaker, Mr. Horvath, was inspired by JAVA’s show at Franklin 54 Gallery in March 2010. When the artist saw the documentary he was moved to create a new body of work reminiscent of the mystique and beauty of Santeria, a religion in Cuba that has influenced JAVA’s artistic expression since childhood.

The dynamic use of found objects in all the work and the artist’s love for garbage and recyclable materials, which trace back to his Castro post-revolutionary Cuba when money and supplies were scarce, if not unavailable, makes for a visually stunning show. In a statement by JAVA regarding his work, he says, “I know this beautiful blue planet where we live will one day be a dump…It’s up to us to save it by using our imagination.”

Using everything from crushed cans to abandoned wood, JAVA “places everything exactly where it should be”, states Joyce Pommer, gallery owner. His attitude of “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” is a wonderful one that he takes seriously in his dedication to the work.

JAVA is a self-taught artist, born and raised in Cuba, now living and working in New York. He has been featured in “Reclaimed”, a 2010 group show of artists who use recycled material, at the Southwest Minnesota State University Art Museum. His work was chosen for the 2009 National Payroll Week campaign and has been included in many exhibitions in Cuba, Italy, Miami and New York City.

January 22nd@ 4p:" Exploring the Process" continues

2011-01-08T11:01:00.000-08:00

Join us on Saturday January 22nd @ 4p when James LoParo and Critic David Cohen continue the conversation about the artist's works in the exhibition.
David Cohen is the Publisher/Editor of artcritical magazine. He is British born, has lived in the US since 1999 and is an American citizen. David was the gallery director at the New York Studio School from 2001-2010 and art critic of the New York Sun from 2003-08, and he moderates the ongoing forum of critical discussions of contemporary art, The Review Panel, at the National Academy Museum.

Archaeo Form XVI
19x17x4"
Fresco/Drywall/Wood
2002

Archaeo Form XII
25x21x4"
Fresco/Drywall/Wood
2002

BEFORE and AFTER: Harmonic Cycles of Creation and Destruction

2010-12-08T13:48:00.000-08:00

JAMES LOPARO, a solo exhibition

X-ild, fresco panels, 47x69x3"

December 14th, 2010 – January 29th, 2011

December 16th @ 6:30p: Exploring the Process with LoParo & critic Larry Qualls

Franklin 54 Gallery + Projects is pleased to present a solo exhibition of extraordinary fresco and archaeo forms by James LoParo. The large-scale fresco pieces are impressive, powerful and majestic. LoParo’s interesting process includes building up layer upon layer of marks, letters, writings, scribbling and color intuitively and spontaneous which progressively become more deliberate. This journey goes on for 7-8 layers as he manipulates the piece to the top. When he reaches that final level he covers the entire surface with white plaster and boldly faces a blank canvas all over again. This step takes a great deal of confidence in covering over the previous multiple layers of work. Now he starts destroying while still creating and works back into his surfaces with saw blades, machetes and other tools to “uncover” what he remembers is underneath and selectively wants to leave for the final image. It is a mind game and a physical act. The self-exploration strips away layer after layer until he is satisfied and the piece feels right visually.

These textural giants are compositionally satisfying and wonderful, colors are calm and serene of umbers, sienna’s, grays and green contrasted against the rich surface that has been peeled away and now reveals so much from beneath – remembered or not, we can see the marks and writings that were made much earlier; LoParo has been on an excavation and exploration rebuilding while tearing away.

The archaeo forms are part of the larger image now destroyed even further and the journey continues. Now the broken fragments are attached to a foundation made by the artist with consideration of the fragmented shape and they becomes an extension of the form. Life moves forward – and the cycle continues. The entire process reflects an uncovering of the self – stripping away layer upon layer of the human experience and the work supports this completely. This confident artist presents much for us to think about.

After achieving success in NYC and across the US in the 1990’s, James left for Italy and the European audience that accepted his work enthusiastically - he is widely collected there including many on site installations. He has recently returned to New York City to reintroduce his work here.

Triple Play Exhibition extended by appt. through Nov. 30th

2010-11-27T11:30:00.001-08:00

The Triple Play: flatiron/gramercy from 3 angles exhibition featuring works by Sharon Florin, Susan Pyzow and Emily Trueblood has been extended through November 30th by appointment only. Please call us @ 917.821.0753 if you would like to see the show.

View all 42 works from the Triple Play exhibition online

2010-11-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

Through November you can see all 42 works in the exhibition on our online gallery @ American Art Collector magazine. Here is the direct link you will need to copy and paste into your browser:
http://www.galleryshowsonline.com/show/franklinangles1110

Triple Play: Flatiron/Gramercy from 3 Angles

2010-10-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

SHARON FLORIN
SUSAN PYZOW
EMILY TRUEBLOOD

Emily Trueblood, "City Towers", Linocut

Susan Pyzow, "Sheffel Hall Night", acrylic on canvas

Sharon Florin, "Flatiron Bird's Eye View", oil on canvas

TRIPLE PLAY: FLATIRON/GRAMERCY FROM 3 ANGLES

SHARON FLORIN
SUSAN PYZOW
EMILY TRUEBLOOD

October 19th – November 24th, 2010
Reception: October 21st, 6-8p
Special Event: November 6th @ 2p: an in gallery walking tour of the exhibition by NYC tour guide Alfred Pommer

Franklin 54 Gallery is pleased to present a collaborative exhibition project by 3 New York City artists: Sharon Florin, Susan Pyzow and Emily Trueblood of paintings and prints that depict two New York City landmark areas- the Gramercy and Flatiron districts.

Sharon Florin has been painting and capturing NYC architecture for many years and they are expertly executed with a realist’s eye yet full of personality. They are detailed, rich and inviting – she captures the heart and feeling of each piece of architecture bringing the intimacy of it to life. Sharon’s respect and love for the architecture and NYC come alive in her paintings so we as the viewer can step in and enjoy so many aspects of the city.

Susan Pyzow’s paintings are strong and a bit eerie though quiet and still - components that make them intriguing along with her use of lush color and heightened contrasts. She draws us as viewers into the “light in the window” that is a beacon. The pieces are real but painterly and we are welcomed into her suspense hoping she will let us inside and reveal the secret. Susan will also have prints in the exhibition along side her paintings.

Emily Trueblood’s linoleum cut prints are clean, sharp and architectural. The imagery in these pieces whether shadow, shapes or angles are simple and striking. Her limited palette accentuates these handsome pieces and repeated use of the window variations keeps the eye moving in and out, up and down. Masterfully composed, they invite us to a fresh interpretation of these NYC buildings.

Each artist has her own technique and vision yet together they portray the richness of these neighborhoods. All three are award winning artists with works in numerous private, corporate and museum collections. Printmakers Susan Pyzow and Emily Trueblood also exhibit with The Old Print Shop in Manhattan. Sharon Florin has exhibited with Franklin 54 since it began in 2004.

"EXPLORING THE PROCESS" with artist Elisa Pritzker and Guest Moderator Dominique Nahas

2010-10-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

Join us on Saturday October 16th from 4-6p for an interesting conversation between Elisa Pritzker and Dominique Nahas, Independent Curator and Critic

Interior I, digital art on plexiglass

"ZIPPED" new works by Elisa Pritzker

2010-09-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 14-OCTOBER 16, 2010

"Between the Urban and the City"

Digital Art on plexiglass

Reception: September 16th, 6-8p

Franklin 54 Gallery + Projects is pleased to present a solo exhibition of new works by Elisa Pritzker. In her 3rd solo show with the gallery, these digital art pieces on plexiglass are a break out of the box for the artist. Here Pritzker continues playing with photographic imagery as she has in the past but now presents a different visual. After capturing the moment in photographs she has altered and cleverly combined them with zippers – an interesting and somewhat mystifying everyday item. Her combinations are captivating and absorbing; her art has a reachable approach using ideas and objects that are part of everyday living - a master of minimalism she continues to say much with little. Although the new works have more imagery than her boxed pieces she keeps them clean, crisp and simple in context and execution. Working on a larger scale here Elisa has succeeded in transforming her minimalistic ideas into a unique vocabulary, increasing her range and giving us more to think about.

The juxtaposition of two unlikely images increases the mystery for the viewer. The zipper between opens or closes the dialogue – divides or invites us. In “Zipped City” we wonder what is going on in those zipped up windows and buildings as people have been zipped up for the night – her use of black in this piece adds to the suspense as its richness looms as a dark wall or disappearing darkness. “Between the Urban and the Country” is a fun piece of contrast – on one side is the cow face forward staring while in a serene country setting – in the other is the madness of rush hour city traffic – in between is the zipper - the cow seems to say it all. These are sharp handsome pieces, a new direction for Pritzker and a first rate one at that.

October 16th, 4-6p: “Exploring the Process” a conversation between Elisa Pritzker and Dominique Nahas, Independent Curator and Critic

Industry Partner to the American Society of Interior Designers

2010-07-29T17:57:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce the gallery has recently been accepted as an Industry Partner to the American Society of Interior Designers
www.ASID.org

SUMMER HOURS

2010-06-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

From June 20th to September 13th, the gallery will be open by appointment only
Visit our website thefranklin54gallery.com during the summer for updates and news
Our fall season will open on September 14th with "Zipped", a solo exhibition of new works by Elisa Pritzker

Our next Easels project will be on September 30th featuring works by Siri Berg with our Guest Moderator TBA

Elaine Defibaugh: "Nite Lite, City Brite" - The Black Light Paintings

2010-04-13T13:58:00.001-07:00

"Layered Cake", mixed media on canvas under black light

ELAINE DEFIBAUGH
“Nite Lite, City Brite”
The Black Light Paintings
May 5th to June 19th, 2010
Reception: May 6th, 6-8P

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects is pleased to present the second solo exhibition of new large works by Elaine Defibaugh. This artist continues her adventurous exploration of materials (fabric, sewing, collage) in these free-floating paintings by presenting them for viewing under the black light. For those of us old enough to remember the fun and connotations the black light stirs up in our memories, it is a trip down memory lane and for those not familiar with what the black light can do it is an introduction to a revealing light source and energy on the painted surface.
Defibaugh is not shy as she jumps in using scale and fluorescent paints to heighten the experience. In her statement she describes: “These paintings combine elements from a traditional landscape genre with a pattern & decoration composition to formally investigate painting as a site for the juxtaposition of the Urban and the Natural in an abstracted collage of continuity and rhythm… My use of fluorescent paint and black light is to suggest a contrast of light between both the cityscape and landscape.” Not only does she suggest a contrast of light but what one experiences within the landscape whether city or otherwise. The pieces are vast and moving like those open spaces Defibaugh has traveled yet they are also so alive with color and energy you can feel the pulse of the city.
Black light is a conversion of energy, it is the near ultraviolet radiant energy that falls just outside the visible spectrum – when the light hits fluorescent materials it makes them “fluoresce” or emit visible light. When the light hits Defibaugh’s paintings they jump into a dance of vibrations with dramatic effects. “Nite Lite, City Brite” when viewed under natural light is a sea of bright colors, mountains, patterns – a beautiful landscape moving in and out, up and down like a roller coaster ride. This same painting under the black light becomes imaginary, glowing with dripping icicles of color – it is totally energized with hotter pinks, bluer blues and eerie blacks. It has become a different landscape now and transfers its energy onto us.
Elaine lives and works in New York City although she travels widely. Her works are included in numerous collections, public, private and museums across the country.
“The creation of this artwork has been made possible in part through a Chashama visual arts studio award. Chashama supports thriving cultural communities by transforming temporarily vacant properties into spaces where art can flourish."

JAVA: Mosaics & Paintings - March 3-31, 2010

2010-02-21T08:20:00.000-08:00

"Still Life", acrylic on canvas

JAVA
Mosaics & Paintings
March 3rd - 31st, 2010
Reception: March 11th, 6-8P

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects is pleased to present an exhibition of new paintings and mosaics by JAVA. A lover of “breaking china”, JAVA has mastered the use of these broken pieces in creating colorful and fun imagery. Mosaics go back more than 4,000 years and the process is a physical one; the actuality of breaking up pieces and juxtaposing them together for a composition is intriguing and self-involving. Irregular chipped surfaces and edges dominate as the materials are carefully adhered to the surface. As the artist notes he appreciates the mosaics as he is able to fix what has been broken.

Staying within this realm, JAVA’s paintings have a primitive, Cubist quality but again are quite involved and color continues to be important. Each one tells a story and here there is much symbolism to build on. “Still Life” is a colorful piece titled appropriately. The asymmetrical faces are sadly confrontational and the 2 tilting sideways become part of the still life. The lying figure’s head becomes enmeshed in the fruit and the chest almost becomes the outside of the watermelon on top. Color is lush and the simple thick handling of the paint heightens the texture and works well for this artist. In contrast to the mosaics, his paintings have a deeper more serious side.

JAVA is a self taught artist, born and raised in Cuba, now living and working in Brooklyn. Using recycled materials in his mosaics and sculptures leads him to endless possibilities as he continues the exploration with these new works. His attitude of “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” is a wonderful one that he takes seriously in his dedication to the work. He has completed many commissions both private and public including portraits, patios and a recent commission in 2009 for National Payroll Week. Works have been included in exhibitions in Cuba, Italy, Miami and New York City.

Exploring the Process: a discussion between artist Edward Evans and Dominique Nahas, Independent Curator and Critic

2010-01-28T12:15:00.000-08:00

Click on the E-card for larger viewing

THE EASELS: January 21st, 6-8p featuring artist PETER TRIPP and Guest Moderator LARRY QUALLS

2010-01-14T12:27:00.000-08:00

Click on E-card for a larger view

EDWARD EVANS: JOURNEYS - January 5- February 13, 2010

2009-12-24T20:32:00.000-08:00

Early Lighting, acrylic on linen 2009, 28x34"

Flight of Matta, acrylic on linen 2009, 54x68"

Plight of Odysseus, acrylic on linen 2009, 72x96"

EDWARD EVANS
Journeys: new large paintings
January 5th to February 13, 2010
Reception: Jan. 7th, 6-8p
Gallery Hours: Tues-Sat 11-6p

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects is pleased to present an exhibition of new large paintings by Edward Evans. The scale of these illusionistic acrylic on linen works is breathtaking - they appear dimensional on the slick airbrushed surfaces that heighten the depth and space. Colors of charcoal grays, oranges and indigos softly abound leaving room to rest in the white spaces that enhance the layers of light. There are swooping movements at different speeds in and out throughout the canvas, soft and hard edges – your eye can hardly stop the ricochet effect yet they are also serene and peaceful - there are many places to get lost but you won’t because this artist has complete control of his medium and directs you on your path.

Explosions of color are everywhere and the movements and shadows give forth to rock formations contrasting with pillowy effects, enclosed inferno landscapes, skies and mists. Light comes through each color as there are many layers applied even though they are thinly painted. The works are full of contradictions and surprises, control and chance. They are crisp and clean yet intertwined. Evans strives to simplify the works and make them more painterly and spontaneous this time around and succeeds in doing so. Standing in front of the piece one can step in and passage through this incredible journey for a very long time.

Edward Evans spent his early years in Minnesota and now lives and works in Stroudsburg, PA. He is the curator at the Southwest Minnesota State University Art Museum as well as other venues and owner of Gallery 705 in Stroudsburg, PA. Edward’s works have been exhibited widely in museums and galleries in the United States and internationally including Italy and Switzerland and are included in numerous museums, private and corporate collections. Evans will be having a solo show in Galleria Polid'Arte, Spoleto, Italy from June 25 - July 25, 2010 during the world famous "Festival of Two Worlds", also called the Spoleto Festival.

"The Easels": Side by Side on November 19th, 6-8p

2009-11-16T17:56:00.000-08:00

Inside-Out 21, Elisa Pritzker, mixed

Rosetta Bentz, Landscape #28, oil on linoleum tile

“The Easels”: Side by Side
Curated by Joyce Pommer
Featuring Rosetta Bentz & Elisa Pritzker
November 19th, 6-8P

Guest Moderator: John Goodrich, artist and Independent Critic

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects is pleased to present the second night of the “The Easels” on Thursday November 19th from 6-8P. This month the featured gallery artists’ works will coincide with the solo gallery exhibition by Sharon Bartel-Clements called “The Side of the Road.” As before we hope to continue the conversation and communication between the public, the artists and their work in an informal setting opening up an informative session of dialogue. In this one night only event the gallery can offer another way for our artists to gain exposure. The project also allows us to emphasize the focus of the gallery through the artist’s process with the goal of stimulating emotional attachment to the work.

Approximately 6 small works by each artist will be exhibited on table easels throughout the gallery, for easy viewing by visitors. This Easels project will feature works by Rosetta Bentz an abstract painter of the landscape/seascape and Elisa Pritzker a mixed media artist. Rosetta’s paintings are lush, rich in texture and forever moving. Her simple strokes and use of color enrich her process. Elisa’s work will focus on her Inside-Out series that is about transformation; they are minimal and compelling. Her mixed techniques and photo resin process work well in emphasizing this as the materials themselves are forever changing. Each artist compliments the gallery exhibition by adding to the real and symbolic meanings of the Side of the Road. We hope you will join us to find out more.

SHARON BARTEL-CLEMENTS: "The Side of the Road"

2009-11-04T18:24:00.000-08:00

Red Wave #2, oil/tire tacks on canvas

Horizon's Promise, oil/tire tracks on canvas

Visit our website for additional images @ www.thefranklin54gallery.com

SHARON BARTEL-CLEMENTS
The Side of the Road
November 5-28th, 2009
Reception: Nov. 12th, 6-9P

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects is pleased to present an exhibition of new paintings, drawings and confluent objects by Sharon Bartel-Clements. “The Side of the Road” conjures up many meanings for us whether real or spiritual and leads us down many paths. Sharon has used actual tire tracks in her paintings and drawings to emphasize the imagery and it works well. As always her paintings are strong and lush with color and movement, painting only with her hands, she digs into these with emotional and energetic markings. The tracks take us up and through the pieces as in Spiracle Exchange #1 – a tumultuous piece where the eye moves in and out through waves of the journey meanwhile immersing us within an ocean of deep blue providing a calming balance. The artist’s use of the circle in this piece brings forth the significance of a beginning and end yet continually moving on and starting over. Red is a prominent color in many of the pieces echoing turmoil, bloodshed and hardship along with a tribal energy. As in life we are taking many roads, some good, some bad leading to enlightened experiences if we can let go and be part of them; this artist encourages us to do so with these works – the emotional connection is here.

The drawings in contrast to the dense paintings are light and airy giving the viewer yet another road to travel on through these imaginative landscapes. Confluent objects make up the remainder of the show including a ladder with a mirror for self-reflection, factices filled with objects that can be found by the side of the road and others relating to symbolic meanings. Whether driving by the side of the road, walking and exploring or traveling down one, Sharon gives a chance to contemplate all of these. Sharon Bartel-Clements lives and works in Santa Fe, NM; her works are included in major institutions internationally.

November gallery hours: Tues-Sat, 11-6

NEW WORKS ON PAPER by TRIPP

2009-10-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

These new works on paper by gallery artist Tripp are spontaneous free floating organic shapes of beauty.
Retailing for $200 framed and $185 unframed, these works are very affordable. Size is approx. 11x14" framed. Please contact the gallery for more information or to place an order.

Abstract #5, acrylic on paper

Abstract #4, acrylic on paper

Abstract #3, acrylic on paper

Abstract #2, acrylic on paper

Abstract #1, acrylic on paper

"THE EASELS", a huge success

2009-10-17T08:11:00.000-07:00

Elisa Pritzker, curator for The Easels; Joyce Pommer, Franklin 54 owner; Dominique Nahas, Independent Curator, Critic & Moderator; artist AJ Nadel

Our new project "The Easels" proved to be a huge success in September with works by AJ Nadel and moderator Dominique Nahas. A most interesting dialogue took place between the artist and Mr. Nahas with a captivated audience attending - we had an excellent turnout for the event.

The Easels will continue on November 19th with a new artist and moderator to be announced shortly. We hope you will join us.

INTRODUCING: "THE EASELS" on September 24th, 6-8P

2009-09-05T08:10:00.000-07:00

"Quartet", Polaroid photo emulsion & chemical transfers by AJ Nadel

Guest Moderator: Dominique Nahas, Independent Curator and Critic

“The Easels”
Meet the Art/Meet the Artist
Curated by Elisa Pritzker
Featuring AJ Nadel
September 24th, 6-8P

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects is pleased to present a new project called “The Easels” previewing on Thursday September 24th from 6-8P. This new project will continue the 3rd Thursday of every other month and feature small works by one or two gallery artists whose work will coincide with the gallery exhibition for that month. Curator Elisa Pritzker will be selecting the artist and the works and will also moderate a talk with the artist during the evening. We hope to develop communication between the public, the artist and their work in an informal setting opening up an informative session of dialogue. It is a one night only event and allows the gallery another way to offer our artists exposure and where we can also emphasize the focus of the gallery through the artist’s process and stimulate emotional attachment to the work.

Approximately 15 small works will be exhibited on table easels throughout the gallery, for easy viewing by visitors. Our first Easels project will feature works by AJ Nadel- a mixed media artist whose process of Polaroid photo emulsion transfers come together as intriguing images. His process is an interesting one and we are fortunate to have him share it with us. As in “Quartet”, a new piece consisting of Polaroid photo chemical and emulsion transfers combined with enamel paint on panel is an overlapping of facial images peering through different layers. The faces are dissected, fractioned and powerful, coming together as a mysterious piece; the imagery is sophisticated and complex to be viewed over and over to discover the rich detail below. AJ will be present to discuss his work and available for questions.

The next viewing of “The Easels” will take place in November with a new artist.

"Portraits of a Lady" film screening Sept. 10th

2009-09-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, oil on canvas by Laura Duggan

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects will be having a free screening of "Portraits of a Lady" (about painting Justice Sandra Day O'Connor) on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 6:45 with a Q&A to follow. This is the documentary short that was shortlisted for an Academy Award in 2007.
The 25 portraits were a big hit at the National Portrait Gallery.

Laura Duggan was one of the artists involved and her version will be on view in the current show LAURA DUGGAN Faces & Figures.

Please RSVP to franklin54@rcn.com

LAURA DUGGAN "FACES & FIGURES" September 3-26th

2009-08-17T18:21:00.000-07:00

"Not Pierced", oil on canvas

Laura Duggan
Faces & Figures
September 3 – 26th, 2009
Reception September 17th, 6-9P

Franklin 54 Gallery + projects is pleased to present in our new space in Chelsea, a solo exhibition of new faces and figures by Laura Duggan. In these oil paintings, Laura continues to capture the essence of the model from which all her portraits and figures arise – from life. Her work thrives on the simplicity of the pose and there is honesty about the pieces; they are delicate and perceptive. “The Music Stand” above is an excellent example of this where the figure reflects an innocence and purity in a white slip dress while sitting quietly with her music stand. In this piece, Duggan has begun to use the background more to become an environment for the figure – she sits well here and fits in. In her past work, Laura’s backgrounds have been flat monotone surfaces that have worked well for her Alex Katz style figures but the incorporated backgrounds now start to tell a different story.

Her faces as always are intriguing – we can easily conjure up circumstances that have caught these portraits in time – it is a moment or glimpse into what they might be thinking. Although the facial expressions appear simple and non-telling we want to know their thoughts and become a part of them.

There is a wonderful stillness and subtlety to Duggan’s work and it will be interesting to see where the artist and her friends bring us next.

Joyce Pommer, Director
September gallery hours:
Thursday 10-8P
Friday/Saturday 10-6P & by appt

"FACES" @ Gallery 705 in Stroudsburg, PA

2009-07-27T16:19:00.000-07:00

Chuck Close: Phil/ Silk Tapestry

705 Fulmer Avenue
Stroudsburg, PA
www.Gallery705.com

Nicola Samori: Apollonaire/mixed media

SHARON FLORIN "ON & OFF THE GRID" (see Gallery News for details)

2009-07-27T15:58:00.001-07:00

French Reflections, oil on canvas by Sharon Florin

EDWARD EVANS EXHIBITING (see Gallery News)

2009-07-19T16:27:00.000-07:00

"Almost Romantic", acrylic on linen, Edward Evans

LEENDERT VAN DER POOL (see Gallery News)

2009-06-30T18:40:00.000-07:00

Panorama, oil on canvas

Adriaen van der Donck, oil on canvas

MORE VACATION VENUES IMAGES

2009-06-15T14:21:00.001-07:00

"The Chairs", James LoParo, charcoal & conte on Arches paper

"Smiling", AJ Nadel, Polaroid emulsion transfer

"Pond 2", Pinkney Herbert, oil on canvas, Courtesy of Allen Projects

"Art Auction 3", Elisa Pritzker, mixed media

VACATION VENUES: June 11th-July 18th

2009-06-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

FRANKLIN 54 AND ALLEN PROJECTS TEAM UP FOR "SUMMER COCKTAIL"

2009-05-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

"Submerged" by Edward Evans, Acrylic on linen, 2005

ALLEN PROJECTS
FRANKLIN 54 GALLERY + PROJECTS
526 West 26th Street #403
New York, NY 10001

Press Release: May 18, 2009

Allen Projects and Franklin 54 Gallery are pleased to present the first opening of our new space at 526 West 26th Street, Suite 403 in Chelsea.

June 4, 5 and 6th, we will be open 10-6 Thursday - Saturday.
Please join us for the opening reception of our new space on Thursday evening, June 4th from 6 to 9 pm. We continue the festivities with a press reception, Friday, June 5th from 10-6P and an open house on Saturday, June 6th with a reception from 3-6 pm.

Michel Allen of Allen Projects and Joyce Pommer of Franklin 54 Gallery have joined forces and opened a new gallery together in the "Robert Miller building." Our gallery names and companies will remain separate yet we will collaborate as one gallery space alternating exhibitions.

Southern entrepreneur and Allen Gallery director, Michel Allen, has been curating exhibitions in New York since 2000. Originally launching her career in New York in the Fall of 1999, Ms. Allen was recruited to work in sales at artnet.com. Soon thereafter, completed a Masters in Art Management and Business Administration from New York University, where she also received a certificate in appraisals from NYU. Later was then recruited to launch ART+AUCTION's artinfo.com and worked at Sotheby's in trust and estates. While working in art publishing, Michel was consulting and represented several artists, which she works with today.

Joyce Pommer, Franklin 54's director/curator is an artist with 20 years of experience in the artworld and 5 years as the owner of the gallery.

The group show opening Thursday, June 4th from 6 to 9 titled "Summer Cocktail" will feature a mixture of the old and new artists the gallery will introduce for the first time. Allen Projects will feature the work of Pinkney Herbert and Lisa Corrinne Davis, both new to the gallery. Franklin 54 will show the work of Edward Evans.

For future information please contact Joyce Pommer at 917-821-0753
franklin54@rcn.com and/or Michel Allen at 917-202-3206 michelallenconsulting@gmail.com.

2009-04-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

NEW WORK BY ELAINE DEFIBAUGH
(click on image for detailed viewing)

Breakfast at Tiffanys, Acrylic, collage and hand stitchery on canvas, 72x105"

My First Date, Acrylic, collage and hand stitchery on canvas, 72x105"

Prints by Sharon Florin - now available through the gallery

2009-04-03T14:44:00.001-07:00

Giclee Prints

Fifth Avenue Reflections II
Arches 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper with archival inks
Image size: 8x10 inches
Matted size: 11x14 inches
Retail price: 100.00
Limited edition of 25

Fifth Avenue Reflections II
Arches 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper with archival inks
Image size: 12x16 inches
Matted size: 17x20 inches
Retail price: 250.00
Limited edition of 25

Alwyn Court
Arches 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper with archival inks
Image size: 8x10 inches
Matted size: 11x14 inches

Retail price: 100.00
Limited edition of 25

Alwyn Court
Arches 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper with archival inks
Image size: 12x16 inches
Matted size: 17x20 inches
Retail price: 250.00
Limited edition of 25

Grand Central Reflections
Arches 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper with archival inks
Image size: 8x10 inches
Matted size: 11x14 inches
Retail price: 100.00
Limited edition of 25

59th Street Bridge Reflections
Arches 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper with archival inks
Image size: 8x10 inches
Matted size: 11x14 inches
Retail price: 100.00
Limited edition of 25

Gallery artists in the Art.works 4 A.C.E.

2009-03-12T12:34:00.000-07:00

Tilted with Persimmon, collage by Ann Woodward

Gallery artists participating in the auction:
Siri Berg
Elaine Defibaugh
Laura Duggan
Joyce Pommer
Elisa Pritzker
Leendert van der Pool
Eleanor Winters
Ann Woodward

Henry Buhl invites you to the 2nd annual
Art.works 4 A.C.E.
Live and Silent Auction
Thursday March 19th, 6-9P
@ Mimi Ferzt Gallery
81 Greene Street in Soho

Preview day is Wednesday March 18th
from 12-6P @ the gallery

RSVP to artworksRSVP@ace4homeless.org
or 212.274.0550 x58

All proceeds from the auction benefit A.C.E.
Association of Community Employment
Programs for the Homeless

EDWARD EVANS @ NINA BLIESE GALLERY through March 13, 2009

2009-01-22T11:47:00.000-08:00

"Fire Dance", acrylic on linen, 36x26"

Nina Bliese Gallery
225 South Sixth Street
Minneapolis MN 55402
612-332-2978

January 15 – March 13, 2009

Gallery Hours:
Monday through Friday, Noon to 5 pm

For more information, contact:
www.ninabliesegallery.com

Leendert van der Pool curates at the Salmagundi Club

2009-01-19T16:27:00.000-08:00

"World Trade Center/Ellis Island", oil on canvas by Leendert van der Pool

"From Trade Pier to Museum Pier", oil on canvas by Leendert van der Pool

For Immediate Release
November 17, 2008

Contact: Kathleen Arffmann or Chris Nunnally info@salmagundi.org (212) 255-7740 or  Leendert van der Pool (718) 855-7964

Salmagundi Club Celebrates New York's 400th Anniversary

NEW YORK: In conjunction with the year-long 400th anniversary celebration of the Dutch discovery of New York, Wilbert Weber, Director of the MuZEEum of Vlissingen, the Netherlands - an historical maritime museum - has invited the Salmagundi Club to be part of a reciprocal celebration of events between the cities of Amsterdam and New York. Leendert Van der Pool, resident artist member of the Salmagundi Club since 2000, is the guest curator as well as a formally recognized honored Dutch artist.
The Salmagundi Club, located at 47 Fifth Avenue between 11th and 12th Streets, will present one of the earliest celebratory events in New York. The Club has served as a center for fine artists from New York and around the country since 1871, providing exhibitions of paintings, sculpture, and photography, lectures, and other art-related programs.  On Monday, January 26, 2009, the Club will open its exhibition titled History Panorama: Salmagundians Illustrate Manhattan's 400-Year Founding by the Dutch. The Panorama consists of 24 panels, 6 feet in height and 3 feet wide, created by Salmagundi artists that depict 400 years of the history of Manhattan. The exhibition will run through February 13, from 1:00 - 6:00 PM daily and 1:00-5:00 PM weekends. There will be an opening reception on Friday, February 6, from 6:00 - 8:00 PM.
The Salmagundi's History Panorama will then move to the Hudson River Gallery & Conservators, opening on Saturday, February 21 and running through March 14. The Hudson River Gallery is located at 86 Main Street, Yonkers, NY 10701, across from the Metro North Station. Their contact information is as follows: Helmut Zitzwitz at 914 964-0401; e-mail hrivergallery@optonline.net.
The Salmagundi's History Panorama's next venue will be at the prestigious Fraunces Tavern Museum, well-known for its historical importance, starting March 23 through July 31, 2009. Its contact information is Richard Gregory, 54 Pearl St, New York, NY 10004, at 212 425-1778 and email: curator@frauncestavernmuseum.org. After its close, the exhibition will then be shipped overseas to be on exhibit at the MuZEEum in the Netherlands from September 4, 2009, through February 28, 2010.   Many talented Salmagundians have devoted their time and skills to portray the history of Manhattan: among others, Joseph McGlynn's panel "Henry Hudson's Ship - Half Moon" shows the ship fording the North River (later renamed the Hudson River); Jane Haher's panel - "New Amsterdam" shows Manhattan as a colony of the Netherlands; Karen Loew chose for her panel "The Battle of Fort Washington;" Ann Kullaf recreates the most severe blizzard recorded in the United States - "The Great Blizzard of 1888" and last but not least, the curator Leendert Van der Pool has created a montage titled "Ellis Island, World Trade Centre."
The museum in Vlissingen is planning a catalogue of the History Panorama that will include images of the panels, historical information about the artwork, and biographical sketches of the artists that will be available at the reception at the Salmagundi Club on February 6. Questions should be directed to Kathleen Arffmann at 212 255-7740 or info@salmagundi.org, and/or Wilbert Weber w.weber@muzeeum.nl; his phone number in Holland is 01131-118-41-24-98.
There will be a second exhibition in the Upper Gallery titled The Contemporary Harbor of Manhattan: Salmagundians Celebrate Manhattan's Bustling and Historic Waterways. This exhibition will run the same dates as the History Panorama and will present smaller works by Salmagundi artists depicting the New York harbor and water structures as they are seen today. Guy A. Wiggins, the grandson of J. Carleton Wiggins (1848-1932) and the son of Guy C. Wiggins (1883-1962), will contribute his "Manhattan from the Brooklyn Shore" to the exhibition.
This second exhibition's next venue will be the Fraunces Tavern, February 18 through March 16, after which time, the paintings will be shipped to the MuZEEum and will be on exhibit at the MuZEEum from May 15 to August 30, 2009.
Lastly, there will be a theme exhibition titled "New York-Its History and the Dutch" that will depict any aspect of the 400-year history of Manhattan, the medium and subject to be chosen by each Salmagundi artist, in the Club's Lower Gallery. There is a possibility that some of these paintings may also appear at the other venues.
Many distinguished dignitaries, including Mayor Michael Bloomberg, have been invited to the reception on Friday, February 6 from 6:00-8:00 PM. Do not miss this very special historical occasion.
***
For additional information, please visit www.salmagundi.org

The Salmagundi Club is dedicated primarily to the exhibition of fine art created by living American artists and to nurturing a friendly atmosphere conducive to learning about art with classes in drawing and painting, discussions about art materials and techniques, and a host of social activities. All exhibitions and most events are open to the public.
Salmagundi Club 47 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10003 (212) 255-7740 info@salmagundi.org www.salmagundi.org
***

"Our Neighborhoods" - January 3-29, 2009

2008-12-28T18:35:00.000-08:00

"On the Bowery", Paula Goldfader

Franklin 54 Gallery presents:

“Our Neighborhoods”
January 3-29th, 2009
Opening Reception: Saturday, January 3rd, 3-7P

A group exhibition of photographs by the Creative Center’s photo club. Images are from the neighborhood of each artist – the project started with photographing the Lower East Side of Manhattan where the Creative Center is now located but branched out to other neighborhoods. All of the artists in the exhibition are connected to the Creative Center and are cancer/serious illness survivors. Please visit the Creative Center’s web site for more information on their organization and view their online gallery.

www.thecreativecenter.org

SIRI BERG: "It's All About Color" - November 20-December 28th

2008-11-16T12:13:00.000-08:00

"It's All About Color #6", Japanese woodblock prints on archival board, 60x30"

For Immediate Release: November 1, 2008
SIRI BERG
“It’s All About Color”
Collage and Assemblages
November 20th – December 28th, 2008
Opening Reception: November 22nd, 4-7P

Franklin 54 Gallery is pleased to present collage works and assemblages by Siri Berg. Rich in color and design, the “It’s All About Color” series is comprised of 6 large panels of 20 individual rectangular Japanese wood block prints within each panel. The series starts with little color in the copper, grey and green range and transforms through each panel into the brilliance of fiery reds and oranges, blues and purples. Each individual print within is unique with interesting textures and designs, although still within Berg’s minimalism they complete a larger cohesive vision. The 4 panels in this exhibition are attractive and elegant with rich and subtle colors.

The remainder of the exhibition is a combination of collage works and assemblages that make for a striking contrast of the artist’s work in color and lack of it. Her assemblage works from found objects are again minimal in design and color. Industrial looking because of the materials and choice of grays, silver and gold, the pieces are simple and serene. The direct and clean works of the Coloratura group continue to reinforce Siri’s excellent use of design and color. Part texture (collage, oil on canvas, pastel on paper) and part flat surface, her use of line with geometric shapes in the horizontally moving base juxtaposed against the lines evaporating upwards makes for an effective image, although again subtle.

Opposites and progression have been an inspiration and an interest of this artist’s for many years.
Extra treats included in the show are Berg’s smaller colorful collages – “Red Hot” is a spatial textural beauty with its warmth of colors suggesting a floating landscape joined by a waterfall of sunbursts. Even smaller gems exist in the precious collage pieces under plexi – these modest works are small pieces of diverse papers combined from silver rectangles and squares with bright flashes of color - there are slight changes here but huge impacts from the different surfaces, some being dull and others shiny and slick.

Born in Sweden, Siri has lived and worked in New York City for many years; she is on the faculty at the Parsons School of Design. Berg has an extensive resume of solo and group exhibitions in the United States and internationally in renowned galleries and museums. Her works are widely collected privately and in major museums including the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Jewish Museum, NYC. Cynthia Maris Dantzic recently profiled her in the book “100 New York Painters”.

MINIATURES, to love & collect, by ELISA PRITZKER - November 2-16th with a reception on Nov. 15th

2008-10-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

Click on the card for larger viewing

Edward Evans Paintings, Sept. 12th-Oct. 31st

2008-09-08T10:31:00.000-07:00

"White Spaces", acrylic on linen

"Come Together" acrylic on linen

Opening Reception: September 20th , 4-7P

Franklin 54 Gallery is privileged to present the new paintings of Edward Evans. These works continue with the Contemporary Chinese theme this artist has been using for a number of years. The simple Chinese characters that Evans incorporates into his paintings heighten the sensibility of the pieces, as he concentrates on the shapes of the characters. These new works are even stronger and sharper in contrast, the finished paintings are vivid beauties. The fine scriptural writings make them unique and draw you closer for examination, daring us to connect and become immersed in them and enveloped by them; one can hardly restrain oneself from touching the work to feel the embossing that is not there. On first glance, thinking they are photographs or 3 dimensional layers we are pleasantly surprised that these are flat acrylic paintings on linen - subtle illusions come about because of this artist’s silky airbrush technique that has been perfected. Ed’s work is clean and crisp, exact yet not stiff - smooth and inviting. Every part of the painting is given equal consideration and importance, again showing us the influence of traditional Chinese painting. For sure these are handsome pieces, full of character and intrigue.

Impressed with the way the old masters painted their illusions, Evans was attentive to how drapery was used to create various moods and feelings by abstracting from the draping cloth and from paper and metal. Lettering, handwriting and signs also fascinated the artist - symbolic forms expressing a desire to communicate and a hope that people can remain individual while working together. Contrasts and tensions have always been evident in his work – hard edges define shapes while some areas are made soft to serve as a foil and allow flow and human sensitive feeling. “My labor intensive process starts with layering and sanding white paint that is applied to fine linen canvas. Then I spray colors with an airbrush because it lends itself to shading so subtle that images can be highly illusionistic from even close up. Because paintings are meant to be looked at, these legible designs must fit into an aesthetic entity. It is not important to read the paintings, but there must be a mood or spirit of the writing.”

Edward Evans spent his early years in Minnesota and now lives and has his studio in Stroudsburg, PA in the Pocono Mountains. He is the curator at the Southwest Minnesota State University Art Museum as well as other venues and with his wife Connie, is the owner of Gallery 705 in Stroudsburg, PA. Edward’s works have been exhibited widely in museums and galleries in the United States and internationally including Italy and Switzerland and are included in numerous museums, private and corporate collections.

SUMMER HOURS

2008-06-28T12:25:00.001-07:00

Big WIndow, oil on canvas by Laura Duggan

During July and August the gallery will be open by appointment only - please give us a call if you would like to see any works by gallery artists and we will be happy to arrange a visit with you. September 12th we will resume our regular hours with a solo exhibition of new paintings by Edward Evans.

Light Chambers, acrylic on linen, Edward Evans

May 22-June 29th, 2008: "The Undeniable Line", mixed media works by ELAINE DEFIBAUGH

2008-05-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

Nite Glow, acrylic, mixed media, hand sewing, collage on canvas, 72x103"

Opening Reception: June 7th from 4-7P

“The Undeniable Line”
Elaine Defibaugh
Mixed Media works
May 22-June 29, 2008
Opening Reception: June 7th, 4-7P

Franklin 54 Gallery is pleased to present a solo show of mixed media paintings by Elaine Defibaugh. Line has always been an important aspect in the works of Defibaugh – she is respectful of it and considers every placement, admirably being able to keep these works spontaneous, fresh and alive. Her use of line is varied whether by drawing, sewing or incorporated materials; the lines continue throughout the composition to bring it all together. Defibaugh’s larger pieces in this exhibition are wonderfully free floating, immediately invoking wonderful sensations of other times and places. These sensations transport the viewer to a place with other sounds and feelings - something all important works of art should do – awaken in us the emotional connection, draw us in and keep us there. Her smaller layered mixed media works continue to bring us surprise packages also made up of many materials and still using the line successfully.

Through her use of line, threads, fabrics, sewing and collage, Elaine has created imagery full of movement, whimsy and sophistication all at the same time. The shapes are organic and she has a command of her use of color. The pieces are full of life and fun, reflective of the titles and the artist herself but they continue to be serious works as she moves forward using different materials and size elements to experiment and further her process.

Elaine received her BFA from East Texas State University and an MFA from Rochester Institute of Technology, also studying at the Yale University Summer School of Art & Music. Her work has been included in numerous solo and group exhibitions across the country including the Butler Institute of American Art, Albright Knox Members Gallery and the Everson Museum of Art. She has received many awards; her work is included in the collection of the Butler Institute of American Art, SUNY Brockport College and many other corporate and private collections. She divides her time between Rochester, NY and New York City.

Franklin 54 Gallery
181 Christopher Street
New York, NY 10014
212.627.8690
franklin541@verizon.net
www.artnet.com/franklin54.html

LAURA DUGGAN's Sandra Day O'Connor portrait in Stanford Lawyer magazine

2008-05-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to gallery artist Mary Felton

2008-04-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

"Transformed Through Time", works by Dorothy Cochran and AJ Nadel- March 20-April 20th

2008-03-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

"Portrait of Marla", Polaroid emulsion transfer, enamel paint on panel by AJ Nadel

"Epiphany", etching with hand embellishment by Dorothy Cochran

“Transformed Through Time”
Dorothy Cochran
AJ Nadel
March 20- April 20, 2008
Opening Reception March 29th, 4-7P

For Immediate Release March 3rd, 2008:

Franklin 54 Gallery is pleased to present the works of Dorothy Cochran and AJ Nadel reflecting the concept of time. Although each works in a completely different process, these 2 artists are incorporating a great deal of time and sequenced events into their works. A number of steps and stages are necessary to complete the works: Dorothy’s “meditation on time pieces” are a combination of obvious time keepers and method ending in exquisite etchings of brilliant color; AJ’s collages stop time when he uses the Polaroid image that has been captured in a moment but then makes it come alive again in the way he uses his materials.

Time continues to be a fascinating and intriguing subject, it goes too fast; it goes too slow. It is interesting to note the time it takes the artist to complete each stage of the process and what happens when the process is cut short, takes longer or is interrupted – how is the end result altered?

Cochran has presented here a group of works based on antique sundials suggesting the measurement or passage of time. Her images are created through drawings, collages and digital manipulations copied onto mylar and exposed to the plate’s surface; a water washout is used to create the etched indentations and as a final part of the process the plate is exposed to ultraviolet light to harden the entire surface. The plate is then inked using intaglio or relief methods and printed; a meticulous yet familiar process for this master printmaker (Dorothy received her MFA in painting and printmaking from Columbia University).

Nadel had transformed his pieces using Polaroid transfers, collage and paint to create interesting and off centered imagery. Through layering, his surfaces are broken into pieces and put back together to make images that are bold and intriguing. Many works are focused on the portrait or human body - appearing like skin, another surface that is affected and transformed through time.

The ancient Egyptian official Ptahhotep included in his wise sayings: “Do not lessen the time of following desire, for the wasting of time is an abomination to the spirit.” These 2 artists have not wasted any time in following their desires enriching their spirits by what they are creating. It has also been said that time separates cause and effect and so it has here with these 2 artists using a different process resulting in different imagery yet they are connected by a sensibility of fragility and boldness intermixed with an intricacy in pattern. Their imagery is sophisticated and complex to be viewed over and over to discover the rich detail that lies within.

Franklin 54 Gallery
181 Christopher Street
New York, NY 10014
212.627.8690

AFFORDABLE ART FAIR PRIVATE PREVIEWS FOR COLLECTORS AND BUYERS March 8th and 9th

2008-03-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

Please join us for a preview of works by 6 Franklin 54 Gallery artists that will be participating in the AAF this June @ the Metropolitan Pavilion in NYC. View the invitation below and please RSVP by March 7th. Click on the invitation to view the details in a larger format.

"A Take on Tradition" curated by Jennifer Groves, January 17-March 1, 2008

2008-01-17T08:34:00.000-08:00

"Yellow Squash", oil on canvas, Randall Mooers

"Aung San Suu Kyi, Green and Yellow", acrylic on canvas, DNA (Delgado/Almendral)

"Feet", charcoal on paper, Jeff Tocci

"A Take on Tradition", curated by Jennifer Groves, features 9 selected artists and their interpretations of enduring genres in representational art. The still life, the nude, and the portrait are among the themes consistently considered by contemporary artists today. Using a variety of techniques and mediums on these traditional themes, this survey includes the following artists: Renee Fineberg, DNA, Elisa Decker, Jeff Tocci, Gil Podorson, Jacques Zuccaire, Elinor Woolf, Randall Mooers, and David Schwartz.

During the period of the early nineteenth century, the still life had become a common subject among those who studied painting. Because of the sheer manipulability and utter compliance of the still-life model itself, the artist could completely control the setting. Absolutely nothing changed in the composition unless action was` taken by the artist. The likeness of the object(s) dominated, and captured a moment in space where time had seemed to stop. This is especially true in Randall Mooer’s still life paintings, whose seemingly unrelated strings, fruits, and plastic bags are so precisely displayed in the composition, there is no question that they belong with one another.

The nude in painting, sculpture, and later photography, was first presented in the iconic form of gods and goddesses. This was a depiction of figures for which the lack of clothing was the natural state. With the artist’s model, his/her nakedness is theatrically staged to imply an air of innocence. The objective is to convey the nude as being an anatomical study, rather than an erotic body. The nude studies of Renee Feinberg, through her detailed use of highlighting, concentrate on the positioning of the model’s body, the musculature in the pose, and a touch of the surrounding environment.

The painted portrait had been a favorite genre of artists of the Renaissance. Oils became the predominant painting medium, given their "workability" regarding detail, depth, brushstroke, etc. The idea of the portrait then expanded in size and subject to include group portraits and full length views. Then photography became another portrait medium that could create the illusion of reality. And 20th century Warhol “portraits” opened the door to a startling new set of criteria: arbitrary colors, flatness, abstraction, and repetition of the subject matter. DNA has successfully followed in Warhol’s footsteps with their signature portrait “characteristics”- the flatness of color(s), the black silhouette, and overall style of “design” rather than depiction. While Elisa Decker has taken the “portrait” and pushed the envelope, including photographic depictions of fruit as erotically charged subject matter!

There has always been an artist and an audience for the rendering of the nude figure, for the depiction of the portrait, for the particular arrangement of objects in still life composition. This attraction is based on the sheer beauty of such carefully created illusions!

And centuries later when these genres would become somewhat obscured, by circumstance and artists’ very natures, historical credibility would ground their appeal and continue to engage the audience.

“A Take on Tradition”
January 17th- March 1st, 2008
Franklin 54 Gallery
181 Christopher Street
New York, NY 10014
212-627-8690
www.artnet.com/franklin54.html
Thursday- Sunday 11-6pm & by appointment

HUT STUDIOS @ GRAND CENTRAL FAIR through 12/29

2007-12-19T17:18:00.000-08:00

HUT Studios and their excellent architectural boxes will be at the Grand Central Holiday Experience/Fair through December 29th. These handcrafted boxes of New York City architecture are wonderful gifts or a great addition to your own collection. Artisans Harold Gilstein and Richard Hopper create these gems with their own drawings, photographs and collage art in rich detail. An incredibly affordable range of prices - visit them at their booth @ Grand Central Station in the Vanderbilt building on East 42nd Street.

Sharon Florin's Alwyn Court

2007-11-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

Alwyn Court, oil on canvas by Sharon Florin

Sharon's painting has been awarded the Dr. Clifford Wheeler Mills Memorial Award for Oil and is currently on view at the National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South in the 94th Annual Exhibition of the The Allied Artists of America through December 10th; the exhibition is open to the public.
Alwyn Court is on 58th Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan and is covered in terra cotta detailing.

James LoParo in "Beyond The Surface" @ Cuyahoga Community College

2007-11-14T16:44:00.000-08:00

James LoParo will be participating in "Beyond The Surface", a group
exhibition at Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio from November 1, 2007 through January 15, 2008. In this presentation, LoParo has installed his Bas-Relief Frescoes, Archaeo Forms, Bronze Castings, and Poetry Works to demonstrate how an artists' mark can transform various mediums into a personal language.

The art gallery is located on the Tri-C Metro Campus,
2900 Community College Avenue, in downtown Cleveland.
A gallery talk is scheduled for November 28th from 1:30 to 2:30.
An opening reception is scheduled for Thursday, November 29th from 4:00 to 6:00pm.
The exhibition is curated by George Kozmon.

Mostly White

2007-10-31T12:05:00.001-07:00

"Measuring Parallels #20", encaustic & eggshell inlay by Debra Ramsay

"Ghost Writers", acrylic on linen by Edward Evans

Sharon Bartel-Clements
Siri Berg
Elaine Defibaugh
Laura Duggan
Edward Evans
Mary Felton
Sharon Florin
Bruce Iacono
Louis Kunsch
James LoParo
Carl Posey
Elisa Pritzker
Liz Whitney Quisgard
Debra Ramsay
Ann Woodward

Franklin 54 Gallery is pleased to present “Mostly White”, a group exhibition by select gallery artists of works reflecting the season and the many aspects of “white”. This time of year brings on a multitude of feelings and emotions from loneliness and regret to happiness, friendship and giving. It can be a time of melancholy and sadness with exacerbations of depression to that of excitement and wonder. Reflecting on the past year, did we give enough to those less fortunate, were we generous and helpful in our treatment towards others, how patient were we? As always, it is a time of hope and miracles, for us to believe the best in our fellow man and steer away from selfishness and greed. White is a much needed resting place - white can be pure but it is also cold which is why we seek out the warmth of color.

The works in this “Mostly White” show reflect many of those emotions. Most of the show emits a cool stark feeling overall like “Hotel” a silver gelatin fiber print by Carl Posey that is sleek, desolate, stark and crisp - barren with feelings of isolation - welcomed or inevitable? James LoParo’s Bas relief “St. Anton” reflects coolness in its material and process by the hard textural surface of the fresco. Warmth and comfort comes in the pieces of Liz Whitney Quisgard, whose colorful yarn on buckrum squares are warm like the fireplace or welcoming arms. Sharon Florin’s reflection paintings remind us we cannot run away from catching a glimpse of ourselves if we stand in front of these buildings. Elisa Pritzker’s boxed construction “Eyes on the Money” speaks for itself and her piece “Witnessing” is a combination of confronting eyes cast upon us – condemning or congratulatory? Debra Ramsay’s encaustic with eggshell inlay piece “Alone Together” reminds us of broken lives put back together and the isolation one can feel during the process, her lavender “Measuring Parallels” pieces continue the calm. Laura Duggan’s “East River White” oil on canvas square combines the palest of blues and greens to transform into an immersion of whiteness – the ultimate of reflections. Her oil portrait “Kimono” is warm and friendly again adding to the mix with which we view the season. Solace, oil on canvas by Bruce Iacono is just that, a place of solitude to be alone yet welcomed into, as are Ann Woodward’s delicate collages. In contrast are Sharon Bartel-Clements paintings that are fiery, full of life and energy and give us the hope we so desperately want.

“Mostly White”
November 1st, 2007 - January 6th, 2008
Franklin 54 Gallery
181 Christopher Street
New York, NY 10014
212-627-8690
franklin541@verizon.net
www.artnet.com/franklin54.html
franklin54gallery.blogspot.com
Thursday-Sunday 11-6 & by appt

Laura Duggan: Sandra Day O'Connor portrait

2007-10-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

Recent exhibiton @ the Smithsonian
Donald W. Reynolds Center for
American Art and Portraiture
National Portrait Gallery News

“Portraits of Sandra Day O’Connor”
In Oct. 2006, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor—the first female Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court (1981–2006)—sat for two three-hour sessions with artists from The Painting Group, a New York-based group of 25 artists, led by masters Aaron Shikler and David Levine, who have been meeting regularly for 40 years. The 25 resulting portraits of O’Connor included in the exhibition showcase the artists’ diverse interpretations of the same subject, illustrating that there is no one way to depict or view an individual.

Laura Duggan painted this portrait and has been with the painting group for over 20 years. Marc Pachter, Director of the National Portrait Gallery, says these portraits capture O'Connor as both a justice and a woman. "That's what I love," he said, "that when you look around we have a sense of a professional, formal presence. But then we have a sense of an intimate connection with it. I love the fact that some really didn't put her in robes at all." (Photo: CBS)

Powerful Papers through October 25th

2007-10-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

"Swiss Tobacco Leaves"
Carl Posey, photography

For Immediate Release: September 15th, 2007

POWERFUL PAPERS

September 13th – October 25th, 2007

Franklin 54 Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition of works on paper by select gallery artists. Paper is an amazing and magical surface – it can be drawn, printed or written on; shred, torn, dunked or wet into a ball of mush. It can have a rough textural or sleek surface to lend to the artist. Whatever its use or the techniques in this show, these artists greatly respect it with their process, completed visual images or the meanings behind them.

Mary Felton’s black and white charcoal drawings grab every tooth on the paper in her bold renderings and variations of the medium; “Order Up” is crisp and clear and 2 new Iris drawings are becoming more abstract with extremes of contrast. Laura Duggan’s pastel portraits grab the paper in a different warm soft way providing an easy balance. Katherine Radcliffe respects her paper in a number of ways, one being she has been an expert marbler for years creating incredibly beautiful designs that draw the viewer in deeper and deeper. These are the backdrops for her new works of acrylic paintings on her hand-marbled paper resulting in heavenly imagery.

Carl Posey’s photograph of rows and rows of tobacco leaves is worthy of any paper and his choice reveals well the folds & texture of each leaf that hangs like the lining of a membrane – a still and powerful image. James LoParo adds 2 Poetry Works “Enchantment” and “Transgression” that are a combination of his smooth flowing words embossed on heavy paper and visual constructions that are strong and honest on handsome paper that reflects the show’s title.

Louis Kunsch combines ink and watercolors on paper that transform out of his layering process into wonderful surprises; Sharon Florin’s giclee’s of Fifth Avenue Reflections and the Eldridge Street Synagogue are a print version of her skillful yet varied architectural paintings and Ann Woodward’s collage pieces are intricate incorporating various papers & drawing. Siri Berg gives us 2 of her pulp paintings that bring us back to the beginning – though made through a difficult process, they are monotone and uncomplicated in their finish – they show us the strength of the paper with little embellishment.

The exhibition will be on view through October 25th, 2007

FRANKLIN 54 GALLERY
181 Christopher Street
(between Washington & West Side Highway)
(#1 train to Christopher St/Sheridan Square)
New York, NY 10014
Gallery Hours: Thursday-Sunday 11-6
212.627.8690 franklin541@verizon.net
www.artnet.com/franklin54.html