James McGrath
by appointment

Lacuna/ Figure series

2021 · Olsen Gallery

This series of monochromatic paintings reimagines classical mythology using Payne’s Gray as a foundational base, creating a refined and nuanced aesthetic. The figures, inspired by 18th-century ceramic renditions of mythological subjects, are meticulously rendered, emphasizing texture, form, and the timeless allure of their classical origins.

Each work is overlaid with a translucent Plexiglas panel in vivid hues such as pink or blue, acting as a modern reinterpretation of a glaze. The Plexiglas not only tints the composition but also incorporates a cut-out, functioning as a lens that frames and sharpens specific elements of the underlying painting. This technique adds depth and focus, creating an interplay between the blurred, refracted edges and the crisply defined areas revealed through the lens.

The combination of monochromatic underpainting and the vivid, glazed effect of the Plexiglas invites viewers to engage in a layered visual experience. This series transforms classical narratives into dynamic explorations of materiality and perception, bridging historical craftsmanship and contemporary techniques.

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