The Masks We Wear
Exhibition Dates:
October 2-October 27, 2019
ARTIST STATEMENT
“Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.” - Oscar Wilde
The paintings in this series portray diverse figures who thrive within the outskirts of mainstream society despite being regarded as invisible by the conservative patriarchy. The expressive application of paint gives the subjects a bold physicality and undeniable presence while the gestural, emotive marks suggest their resounding humanity. Masks, often tools for disguise, take on a metaphorical role that connect the models to a greater narrative, engaging a dialogue of identity, otherness, and personal mythology. My treatment of form explores both reality and abstraction, engaging color, shape, and pattern to continuously deconstruct and rebuild. The painterly surface becomes a mask in itself - the visceral, emotive marks reduce the literalness of the depiction while invoking a more substantive connection to the figure and their story.
NOTE: One of the pieces in the series, American Dreamer, addresses the mistreatment of immigrant children at the border. I'm partnering with a group called Vigil For Democracy to use the image in nationwide protests about this issue. The painting is being projected onto government buildings and displayed on mobile billboards.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Paul Richmond is an internationally recognized visual artist and activist whose career has included exhibitions in galleries and museums throughout the United States as well as publication in numerous art journals and anthologies. His work is collected by individuals around the globe. In his role as the Associate Art Director for Dreamspinner Press and their young adult imprint, Harmony Ink Press, he has created over four hundred novel cover illustrations. He is a co-founder of the You Will Rise Project, an organization that empowers those who have experienced bullying to speak out creatively through art. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Paul now lives with his husband Dennis in Monterey, California. He works and teaches at Open Ground Studios in Seaside.
17 Russell Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 565-0314
Artist Talk:
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Opening Reception:
Saturday, October 5, 2019
Collector/Gallery inquiries:
Caren Peterson, gallery owner
Tel: 614-565-0314