PRESS RELEASE
ROBERT MARS: Like Reflections
Jan 14 – Feb 21, 2021
Diehl Gallery
presents
ROBERT MARS: Like Reflections
1.14.2021 - 2.21.2021
"Every act of creation is first of all an act of destruction." - Pablo Picasso
Robert Mars' new body of work strikes a balance between chaos and control. Employing concepts rooted in abstract expressionism, Mars begins with multicolored paint layers of loose and dynamic brushstrokes on vintage newspaper. Choosing to sometimes highlight and sometimes obliterate this record of events acts as rebellion to structure and order. The vintage newspaper is a bridge to the events of the past; anchoring in the work in history. The dialogue between the layers of color and the events glimpsed through the paint sets the palette for the final composition.
To apply order to the chaos, Mars precisely cuts the painted newspaper into predetermined patterns. Based on traditional quilt patterns from American history, the mix of handcraft and the meditation of time contained in that often overlooked folk art, these tessellations echo the backgrounds utilized in Mars' representational body of work. "As I rebuild the composition, I keep structure, composition and color in mind." The process of discovery and sense of resolution is the result of reconstructing these compositions.
In light of Covid-19 and in an effort to keep our artists, staff, and collectors safe, we will not host an opening reception. Instead, we invite guests to schedule a private appointment to view the exhibition. Appointments for groups of 6 or fewer are available at your convenience.
We are currently only open by appointment. Please call us to schedule a visit.
Masks are required for entry into the gallery.
Exhibitions can be viewed virtually on our website.