JUN 1, 2012 – JUN 23, 2012
Common Sense is pleased to present Fragments, a new solo exhibition of figurative paintings by Allyson Glenn. Including works from the series ‘Cracovia’ and ‘Urban Narratives,’ the images address issues of cultural identity, conflict, and transition.
The ‘Cracovia’ project was initiated in the old Jewish ghetto of Krakow, Poland, during an eight-month residency. It was completed in 2010 and is composed of sixteen figure narratives and cityscapes. In order to capture a genuine portrayal of the culture, many of the portraits were painted in live sessions in Krakow. The intent of the project was to examine post- communist culture in Poland, and address the coexistence of modernity with remnants of war and occupation.
‘Urban Narratives’ is a continuation of familiar themes, however it introduces new topics relating to cultural and human cycles, such as conflict versus resolution, birth and death. The project will comprise of twelve figurative paintings, exhibited as four triptychs. These works will not only invite new themes, but will also incorporate the concept of ‘narrative structure’ (most associated with literature or theatre) to create visual liaisons between the images. This project is in the development stage, thus the exhibited images offer a glimpse of the completed sections of the triptychs.
Common Sense opens Fragments, a solo exhibition by Allyson Glenn, with a public reception on Friday, June 1, from 7 – 11 PM. Admission is free, and the artist will be in attendance. The exhibition runs until Saturday, June 23, by appointment or by chance.
Artist captures issues of conflict and transition
FRAGMENTS FEATURES WORK OF SASKATOON’S ALLYSON GLENN
[By Janice Ryan, edmontonjournal.com]
EDMONTON – Allyson Glenn says she’s a “bit of a sponge” when she visits a new place. Her ability to absorb and observe her surroundings is evident in her figurative paintings. The results are riveting.
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Her exhibition at Common Sense Gallery combines two bodies of work created over the past five years: Cracovia, inspired by an eight-month residency in Krakow, Poland, has toured North America since 2007, while Urban Narratives is a new series of not-yet-completed triptychs — hence the show title, Fragments. Both projects address issues of cultural identity, conflict and transition.
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Glenn is a master at creating theatrical spaces in a two-dimensional realm. “I always leave ambiguity in the images so that it doesn’t become literal or illustrative. I like subtlety.”
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“I always wanted to be a figurative sculptor,” she quips, “but at the same time I really love painting, so this is a way to connect the two.”
Common Sense 