Since the early 1960s in New Orleans, Emery has been making large-scale aluminum sculptures that are constructed to work with the wind: They sway, rotate and bend. The shapes are positioned to give the sense they are dancing.
Three years ago, the artist James Drake (born 1946) began the ambitious project of creating 1,242 drawings that would trace and reference all of the developments of his multifaceted career. Known as both a sculptor and video artist, Drake has always considered draftsmanship to be a key to his process, and this body of drawings does not disappoint. It is both a fascinating tour of Drake’s creative thinking and a testament to the simple power of graphite and ink on paper in the hands of a master of the craft.
Viewers familiar with Alexander’s work will recognize some of the characters who have populated his swamps, oceans, jungles, and dinner parties over the years. In the paintings and drawings gathered for this exhibition, the artist had identified works that play off the themes that have sustained him throughout his career.
David Bates is a paradox. Based in Dallas, he appears focused on the mysteries associated with bodies of water. In an area not known for modesty, he keeps a very low profile. His paintings reflect an eclectic mingling of styles, but come off as boldly natural.