Au: Exchange at Redline
Gold has always been fascinating, and it is especially fascinating in a recession that touts the rare element as recession-proof. Money is so tight right now, or so we hear. Fittingly, in this money-themed show, not much seemed too extravagant. I wouldn't characterize any single piece as a splurge, but rather as calculated, spare, and elegant work. On opening night, the show had a gold and beige color, overall. Nothing stood out color-wise, and perhaps for this reason, each piece demands its own singular, committed attention.
The premise for the show is simple: Each Redline artist was granted a 2.5 bar of gold to use for this exhibition. Whether the artists sold the gold to buy supplies, or included the gold bar in their piece, this was the artists' choice. The results of this starting point were satisfyingly varied.
Perhaps not strangely, the best part of this show is the open artist studios. This brilliant aspect of Redline’s programming invites the public into the usually very private spaces of creation. Where else in Denver can one almost trip over a paint tube, or see the anatomy library of an artist? Witnessing pure process is an incredible privilege. Too often does process go glamorized or mystified. Here we get to see process alongside finished product. If you ever get a chance to visit Redline, you should make it a point to check out every studio. You'll be amazed at what you discover.
It must be hard to curate such a show as this, or easy. I am not sure. Giving such generous space and resources to artists requires an efficient organizing of the resulting pieces. Overall, I enjoyed seeing the works of familiar Denver artists. Sterling Crispin’s Google chat print was existential and delightful, and attracted many gallery folks. A Terry Campbell painting loomed and overwhelmed, as usual. Each artist was working in his or her own oeuvre, and each has done a piece that fits with his or her respective bodies of work. That’s good as gold, is my guess.
This show can be seen at Redline through January 1st.
http://redlineart.org/art/events/exhibitions/au-exchange.html
Becky Jewell, November 14 2011
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