Kimberly Crawford
Intermediate Illustration
M. Shepherd
17 January 2004
(Re)Narrate Critique
(Re)Narrate was an engaging, dramatic exhibition
that allowed the audience to step into another’s memory and learn
and tale or two. The compositions were balanced, and the colors
schemes were intriguing. Art admirer’s who were fortunate enough
to attend the closing of (re)narrate viewed breath-taking films,
listened to inspiring speakers, and were able to speak with
some of the artists that contributed to the show.
I was particularly drawn to the more graphic pieces
such as Peace Talks
and Portraits. These pieces were beautifully collaged together. The use
of patterning in Portraits had me totally drawn into the piece. Also hidden symbols
and materials that were covered in paint had me searching each entire
piece for little nuances. The subject matter of the speech bubbles
bore into the minds of the painted figures. I felt
the pieces were about relationships and the awkwardness/communication
and lack there of
that takes place within one.
Peace Talks were done in
a style that I very much appreciate as a graphic designer and
illustrator (aspiring). They have heavy lines and splashes and fades of
color that really draw the viewer into the intensity of the pieces. In
all honesty I’ve never been extremely drawn into political
affairs, though I know it is highly important to have a solid
understanding of world affairs as an artist. Therefore, I would like to
speak with Brett Colley to get a better understanding of the meaning of
his pieces.
In general, I feel that my favorite aspect of
(re)narrate as a whole was the amazing ability almost all the
artist’s had to put together stunning collages. The worked
surfaces, added materials, and superior color schemes really spoke to
me. I hope to learn and develop my skills as a collage artist, and
learn from the pieces that I viewed at (re)narrate. Their eye for
composition, subject matter, and overall impact was quite unique.
After I left the closing of the show I was filled
with interesting and new
ideas. I was shown ideas from the past, present,
and future and can not wait to incorporate what I have learned into my
own work. The show was well organized, energetic, and insightful, and I
was challenged to extend my
visual and mental boundaries out a couple more
miles.
