RECOMMENDED
In an attempt to transform the family album of a century ago into a thoroughly postmodern presentation, Preston Wadley opens an old book, coats it unsparingly with rust-colored paint, and uses it as a base upon which to affix vintage photographic portraits of the time and some found object like a miniature wooden canoe or a little bird figurine that he has painted in aqua tones. Were it only for the photographs, Wadley’s constructions would exude nostalgia, but when the images are embedded in obviously contemporary fabrications, the works evoke ironic playfulness awakened by the juxtaposition of opposite sensibilities. A comfortably confounded little boy holding a big ball would fill us with nostalgic compassion were he not placed next to a beautiful little metal tray partly painted in aqua to simulate corrosion, upon which reposes a bent rust- colored spoon. (Michael Weinstein)
Through December 13 at Schneider Gallery, 230 W. Superior, (312)988-4033.
Related Stories
Haptic Traces of the Moon's Phases: A Review of Carrie Schneider at Monique Meloche Gallery Schneider's richly layered exposures trace the moon's path over a lunar cycle.
Eruptions of Color: A Review of Pooja Pittie at McCormick Gallery Nothing is recognizably depicted, but something like a festive spectacle has been achieved with layers of colorful marks that range from orderly patterns of dots to large, dramatic brush strokes.
Here Comes the Bogeyman: A Review of Tony Lewis at Shane Campbell Gallery Lewis returns with large-scale drawings and haunting sculptures made from remnants of a previous show.
Height, Width and Just a Little Depth: A Review of “3-D” at Gallery Victor Armendariz In this group show, a variety of mostly figurative sculptures succeed by being quirky.
