With all the varied surfaces that art is being created on, it was nice to see an exhibition that was centered around paper. The idea of art on paper may seem simple, but the detail, creativity and work that went into the pieces at the Art On Paper exhibition at Mike Hess Brewing, North Park, and presented by Art By Kami, was impressive. Many variations were represented and there were surprises as well.

 

Graphite on paper was represented exquisitely by Amanda Kazemi, peonies rendered with contrast and balance showing skill with the medium. Deana Freeman’s Octopodidae is a delicate dance that treats her subject with grace in movement and tone.

 

FaTrucia’s abstract, “Overlap”, is a sweet depiction of commitment. Under the rough exterior surrounding the work are hearts tied to hands, where deep connections, both emotional and physical are intertwined. In “Phenomenology of Simple”, Chris Farrington gives a contradiction, where the simple flame motif is made complex by intricate patterns and complementary palette.

 

Yanik Di’s piece “Wasabi Yanimoto” and Ian Wiggins’s “The Hand Of Source” both treat us with symbolism, with Di’s Asian symbols and traditions, and Wiggin’s cultural, economic and scientific imagery. Both have detail that challenges the viewer to find meaning and interpret the metaphors in each.

Charlie Harding provokes us and dares us to think deeper about religion and what it means to each of us with his sculptured 3D piece “Baybee Jeebus”. By using bible pages to cover the work, he confronts the viewer with questions of the sacred, both of faith and youth.

“HeART” and “Graffiti Butterfly”, both by Adam Nichol, make use of corrugated cardboard, turning it into something striking and beautiful. HeART, built by the careful layering of cut pieces, then painted vibrant red, is notable for its brilliant simplicity of idea and inspiring execution. The cut single layer of Graffiti Butterfly reveals fibers in the corrugation underneath, which resemble the abandoned cocoon of the escaped butterfly.

“Roots” by Erin Bowman is a wonderful example of design, theme and detail coming together to make a visually and spiritually striking piece. Another visually striking piece, “Wind Dance” by Chris Conroe, takes the simple line, combines it with a striking design and finishes with tasteful solid fills to create a work that moves and is moving.

Brooke Snyder has created a piece in “Paper Moon” with so many (literal) layers and depth that it has to be seen in person to fully appreciate. As an accurate depiction of that heavenly body, it commands attention.

The whole show was a exceptional representation of the possibilities of paper, and congratulations go to all the artist who participated for their skill and dedication to the medium, proving that art on paper can surprise and delight.

For inquiries about the artists or purchase, contact Art By Kami at topartistssd@gmail.com

Brian Baxter, October 11, 2016