DAVE DELANEY
GRAIN
Paintings on Wood
October 1 - November 26 2004
Opening Reception: Friday, October 1 - 6-10pm
Second Reception: Friday, November 5 - 6-9pm
222gallery
222 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
222gallery is proud to present Philadelphia based artist Dave Delaney in his debut solo exhibition: Grain. Consisting of oil paintings on plywood, Delaney's work reveals another facet of the photo realist genre. In this exhibition, Delaney continues to study the people and objects that surround him.
Like many of his predecessors, Dave Delaney's paintings walk a fine line between true reality and abstraction. While other realist artists such as Gerhard Richter and Don Eddy have used depth of field or absolute focus, respectively; as recurring structure for their imagery, Delaney uses the undulating wood grain of plywood as an abstract background for his closely studied subjects. Carefully paired with, and oriented to the subject, the organic pattern of the wood can suggest horizon, movement, and emotional tone. Equally, this open milieu stands in direct contrast to the detailed subject before it, soliciting a closer look into the subject of the painting. It is this careful inspection that reveals the subtlety of emotion, and perhaps a better understanding of Delaney's careful choice of subject.
ARTIST STATEMENT
Grain, as a body of work, is a move forward in my painting. My work has always been very subject oriented, painted exclusively on wood. I paint things and people that influence me on a daily basis.
As an artist, I tend to feel that my work needs to change with each milestone, but at the same time, I feel the need to stick with what works, what feels comfortable; as a result, I have found ways to subtly explore within the process that already exists.
Grain is the most recent incarnation of this exploration; color has been explored, as well as a subtle narration at times with my figures and objects, while maintaining the simple portraiture I strive for. I have always had a reason or meaning for choosing any one person or pose, usually based upon the subtleties of that persons personality or actions; or the manner in which and object interacts with my life, and I have tried to push that with this body of work, maybe imperceptibly to the viewer, maybe not.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
David Delaney is a 28 year old Painter, Designer and Illustrator. Dave grew up in the Philadelphia suburbs surrounded by a strong art influence, both from family and friends. Dave started drawing at an early age under the training of his grandfather, who was also a painter. During high school Dave took as many art classes as possible and continued his studies at University of the Arts in Philadelphia, graduating in 1998 with BFA in Illustration. During his tenure at U of A, Dave became friends with a group of artists who now show as a collective under the name 1208. Delaney also works as a Designer and Web-Developer for odg / otto design group.
Delaney was recently named one of twenty-five emerging designers in 2004 by STEP Magazine. Dave Delaney currently lives and works in Philadelphia.
For additional information regarding 222gallery events, exhibitions, art / artist information and press, please contact Karl Peters, kpeters@222gallery.com or call 215.873.0750.
For additional information regarding 222gallery website, sales + buying, please contact: sales@222gallery.com.
