Author: Joseph Abbati

New additions to my “Artspeak” series.

“Artspeak” is about the observation of art manifested by the art jargon or tropes that try to define art for ourselves.  The descriptions in these paintings are culled from art reviews, PR releases, and biographies.  They have become so ubiquitous to the art world, that they lose meaning and represent a kind of hyperbole that can be applied to any artwork.

By placing these “artspeak” descriptions on top of the painting, it forces the viewer to engage with these narratives and question if they are meant to describe the painting in the background.  The viewer is seduced into making the same narrative for themselves unless they realize it’s all bullocks.

This is the price of entry for some in the art world.  The coded language which tries to elevate the meaning and value of what is being observed. 

Acrylic on canvas, 30″ round.

A new “Linemen” painting.

New studies of background graphics to be used for future paintings.  Each of these studies are 12″ canvas rounds.

The “eARTh” exhibit I curated for the office of Senator Scott Wiener had it’s opening reception September 16th in the California State Office Building in conjunction with the Global Climate Action Summit.  Twenty-five artists participated by bringing work that reflected their concerns, reflections, and reactions about global warming.

I installed my “Linemen” acrylic paintings on canvas for the first floor at Strut last night.

The subjects of the paintings were inspired by Instagram influencers.  The loopy-lined figures of young male posers represent the swag, attitude, and stance of these would-be influencers. Seen here, they become an artistic expression of social media’s obsession with self. 

The opening reception is Sunday, September 16th, 2018 from 6-8pm at Strut (470 Castro St., San Francisco).