Graphic design duo Sonnenzimmer once again flexes their fine art muscle with an ambitious exhibition of slick abstract paintings, each layered with various application techniques. Some marks, which look like gestural brushstrokes, reveal themselves to be carefully screenprinted upon closer inspection, only to be mostly obliterated by literal strokes, smears and sprays of watery paint. On the floor, Sonnenzimmer debuts a collection of exciting sculptural works as well. Delving into the tradition of textiles, they’ve merged hand-woven, hand-painted and screenprinted fabric into a series of quilts, which are strategically stretched and draped over clever wooden structures constructed by Club Club, an award-winning architectural collaborative. With this addition of the third dimension, Sonnenzimmer’s careful compositions are accentuated and their forms come to life. Unexpected color choices and an impeccable eye for detail draw us in, make us scratch our heads and keep us looking. (Kelly Reaves)
Through June 7 at Public Works Gallery, 1539 North Damen. Artist lecture on Friday, May 17 at 7pm.
