Into this art world of faux-philosophizing and "deeper meaning" comes an exhibition that is just for fun: "Gary Komarin: The Bowman Sixpence Has Got to Have Soul," on view at Gremillion & Co. Fine Art.
The first thing one notices about "The Bowman Sixpence" is the absence of theme. There is no identifiable rhyme or reason to it. From the name to the paintings; each oil on canvas tells its own little story. Even the series of birthday cakes hanging between the canvases painting seem random. However, a little bit of prodding reveals that the randomness is the theme.
"He said if he thinks too much about the paining, it'll ruin it," said Bob Russell, a Gremillion employee, of Komarin's kooky designs.
"The Bowman Sixpence" is an exhibit created by, of course, Gary Komarin, a New York artist who currently resides in Connecticut. Komarin graduated from University at Albany, State University of New York, followed by an MFA from Boston University. His curriculum vitae boasts more than 100 solo and group exhibitions in places as local as Houston and as far as Zurich. With all of the accolades Komarin has acquired, it is understandable why his current exhibition is so carefree; like a retired teacher who comes back to substitute when the mood strikes, Komarin can now paint what he wants, when he wants. Unburdened by the looming deadline of negative or positive reviews, he creates with childlike abandon, and so the "The Bowman Sixpence" is the manifestation of this self-actualized freedom: a collection of cute, candy-colored abstract paintings on canvas and on paper.
The colors of the pieces bowl you over, as well. "Ipso Facto in Orange with Black" is a mixed media of bright, bright orange with pockets of white blobs and black lines -- a suitable Halloween decoration to go in a quirky billionaire's mansion.
"The Egyptian Hat Trick" is another mixed media on canvas piece. An assortment of blue, orange, purple and pink doodles saves a pretty dull white-and-grey background, like a shower of multicolored sprinkles livening up a plain white sheet cake.
Just when you thought these colorful touches were tasty enough, Komarin sweetens the exhbition with images of lovely layer cakes hanging alternately between the abstract paintings. This is one the kids can appreciate; the adults, not so much: these decadent treats are outlined in hot reds and pinks, inducing drools and, "Can we get some when we get home... please?" To avoid this, keep the kids away from "Untitled (Green Cake on Pale Pink)," a stacked confection outlined in lime green. It is the most mouthwatering crowd-pleaser.
"Gary Komarin: The Bowman Sixpence Has Got to Have Soul" will be on view through October 11. Visit gremillion.com for more information.
