A picture is worth a thousand words, but nothing is worth even more. “Symphony #87”, the exhibit currently on display at Zilkha Gallery, introduces a whole new way to view the world of art.
A compilation of works by leading neo-minimalist artists, “Symphony #87” welcomes the gallery patrons the moment they walk in with sheer genius. Instead of displaying boring or trite works, the gallery walls stand bare. Patrons of the gallery are left to wonder and reflect in rooms of naked walls.
“Painting, drawing, sculpture. These mediums are completely overdone and limiting,” commented presenting artist Jacques-Pierre La Fleur. “Through our art we can express ideas and emotions without any restriction.”
La Fleur, often considered the father of neo-minimalism, worked closely with the gallery curators to ensure a successful presentation of the exhibit. As recommended by La Fleur, no lectures or talks accompanied the opening of the exhibit as no introduction is needed.
“Le exhibit stands alone. Words can not do our art justice,” explained La Fleur.
La Fleur’s sentiments are readily understood upon viewing the exhibit. The absolute starkness powerfully communicates with the audience with out the unnecessary dribble of talk.
“The Symphony was just so profound. I especially liked the first room. I felt a really profound connection between the artist and my own inner-artist. It was very profound,” admired Dave Hutchinson ’05.
With such intense work, one really needs to spend a lot of time in the gallery to truly appreciate this revolutionary exhibit. La Fleur recommends devoting a whole day, in order to allow oneself to view the whole exhibit and fully experience each work.
“I wish I could have stayed longer, but the gallery was closing,” said Emily Martin ’04. “There was just so much to see, I ran out of time.”
The neo-minimalists focus on the essence of art, with out the trivialities of color, light, form, and composition. Leaving these boundaries behind, the neo-minimalists escalate art to a whole new level. With out these elements to categorize a work, the viewer can easily identify with the artist.
“In one word, I would definitely describe the exhibit as postmodern,” observed Ben Ramsey ’06.
Zilkha Gallery was full of curious patrons this past Saturday at the shows opening. As word spreads, the crowds are only expected to increase. Overall, the exhibit elicited a positive response.
“The exhibit was profoundly life-changing. I view everything differently now. I want my art collection to be as profound as the exhibit,” gushed Hutchinson.
However, not everyone can appreciate fine art. Perhaps the emotive symbolism depicted in these immediate masterpieces is too sophisticated for some to comprehend and interpret.
After viewing the exhibit Lauren Fall ’07 commented, “Ummm, I don’t see anything? I don’t get it?”
How did she get into the University anyway? To experience how beautifully artistic emptiness can be, visit the exhibit during gallery hours from 12-4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. Like La Fleur said, “Symphony #87” must be seen, no words can describe it.
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