Material Matters - John “CRASH” Matos and Eric Zener

Joanne Artman Gallery
Nov 1, 2017 10:52PM

The ways in which artists approach material often reveal quite a bit regarding their process and methodology while offering pathways to understanding the finished work as well. Much of concept-based work hinges on delicate intricacies and considerations of material and medium which help inform much of our understanding. For artists who work within more traditional modes (such as oils, acrylics, steel, plaster, etc.,), material considerations are firmly in place based upon well established historical precedents. Artists John “CRASH” Matos and Eric Zener are two artists who adeptly navigate the established norms within their medium of choice, while also creating work that extends the dialogue beyond the perimeters.

CRASH
Silver Streak 2
Joanne Artman Gallery
CRASH
Corona (neon)
Joanne Artman Gallery

Maverick, master of technique, originator of unbridled creative energy and community, John “CRASH” Matos is well known for his iconic spray paint on canvas works. CRASH’s uniquely compelling imagery speaks to the streets in a visual language born of his urban roots. Within a body of work that spans almost four decades, the Bronx-born artist has developed a style which evokes both the immediacy and freshness of raw graffiti within a richly articulated visual vocabulary firmly cemented within the lexicons of both pop and street art. In Silver Streak 2, a work which showcases the artist’s exploration of collage, a non-linear timeframe, and narrative, CRASH’s mastery of the the medium is evident. In Corona, a similar approach is taken, however, by incorporating the neon element, CRASH invokes a further analysis and deeper dialogue on nostalgia, vice, and appropriation. By breaking up the picture plane, CRASH creates a point of entry for the framework of the neon sign - a winkingly familiar symbol that seems to take on life of its own.

Eric Zener
Surfacing
Joanne Artman Gallery

Eric Zener captures breathtaking scenes of submersion with oils on canvas, as well as mixed media on panel. The captivating compositions center on the brief but wondrous state of change, as the body enters the vast, blue space of water, often framed by an explosive cloud of air bubbles such as in Surfacing. In his work with oils, Zener focuses on the articulation of the body in space, its weight and presence. However, in utilizing mixed media, Zener is able to focus on other properties within the scenes, such as the effect of water on light, by incorporating light reflective elements such as silver and gold leaf. The shape of light, the reflections of sunlit depths, are truly articulated in Zener’s captivating, multi-layered works on panel.

John CRASH Matos and Eric Zener are represented at JoAnne Artman Gallery || 326 North Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach CA 92651 | 511 A West 22nd St., New York NY 10011

www.joanneartmangallery.com | [email protected] | 949.510.5481

Joanne Artman Gallery