PRIMAL
paintings by
JAMES HAVARD
December 12, 2019 - January 11, 2020
John Molloy Gallery is once again pleased to present recent work by James Havard. In a career that now spans six decades, Havard continues to innovate in his use of materials and composition. The show of paintings is currently on view at the gallery through January 11. Best known for his pioneering work in the 1970’s movement, Abstract Illusionism, Havard currently embraces figural work that is highlighted by his use of such elements as corrugated cardboard, foam insulation as well as foam core collage. He frequently layers the oil paint and often inscribes over these layers, creating tactile impressions. His outstanding use of colors remains one of the constants throughout his career. While physically limited to painting from a wheelchair, his creative spirit knows no bounds. He uses thumbtacks, foam core lines that recall the shadow lines drawn to much controversy in the days of Abstract Illusionism. He has even used the tire tracks of his wheelchair to create background lines on his collage paintings, most notably in the image above. It has been said that Havard paints the unseen and these paintings all reflect essential elements beyond our vision. There are very few artists who continue to grow and explore over decades. The few that do tend to be the masters of their idiom. James Havard is one such master. |