Untitled, Martin Paar, from "Luxury" series, 2005 (2008 printed)
Retrospect which means, to look back in thought or contemplate the past, is what Kristin and I thought connected these three works together. The Images were located at different galleries with in the MIA. Because they are part of different exhibits they did not automatically relate to one another. However, these images had an impact on us while we viewed them and when we placed the images together as a group a feeling or sense of the past came to our minds. These pieces were all done by different artists at different times. The 2 photographs, Untitled (or cocktail party on the floor, if u will) by Martin Parr and the photograph of the chairs by James Welling, may not say much in terms of narrative, they are quite striking in their composition, use of color and texture. Vivid colors and stylized subject matter reminded Kristin and I of a more glamorous and simple time. Cocktail parties, modern furniture, skirts just above the knee and the use of clean and simple lines, and carefully placed objects invites the viewer into theses photographs and creates this idea of an era gone by. Even the drawing, "Frank" by Chuck Close, has a very retro feel to it. The image itself is quite large in scale and when u see it in person it is overwhelming and incredibly well done. It is so precise that it looks like a photograph. Which for Kristin and I is how it relates to the other works we were drawn to. By placing these images together in an installation we are hoping to create a feeling of the past, but a very modern and important past. I also like for things to be beautiful in their design and composition. All of these works are ascetically pleasing and transport the viewer to another time and place. This idea of beauty over narrative may seem shallow to some, However I consider beauty to be it's own narrative and can sometimes make a greater statement than those works that are meant to shock and awe just for the sake of it. We very much enjoyed the visit to the MIA and will more than likely return to view more works. Observing and analyzing the work that other artists do is an essential part of growing as an artist.
You have definitely brought together a bit of a mid-century modern aesthetic with the juxtaposition of these works. Don't underestimate your narrative, the Parr piece seems to be oozing narrative, especially when placed next to the Welling...with the subject of Close's painting as the protagonist...
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